Musikverein presents Handel's early masterpiece 'La Resurrezione'

The Vienna Musikverein recently hosted a performance of George Frideric Handel's oratorio "La Resurrezione di Nostro Signor Gesù Cristo," conducted by Martin Haselböck with the Orchestra Wiener Akademie. Haselböck described the work, composed when Handel was just over 20, as "one of the great achievements of a young genius."

The concert showcased Handel's precocious talent in Rome, where he composed this significant early work. The performance effectively conveyed the biblical figures' grief over Jesus's death and their subsequent celebration of his resurrection through distinct musical characterizations. Soprano Bruno de Sá, known for his remarkably feminine voice, delivered a particularly impressive performance as the Angel, singing with a clear and secure high soprano range.

In stark contrast, bass Alexandre Baldo embodied Lucifer with a fittingly diabolical presence and a profound yet flexible bass voice. The character of Mary Magdalene, depicted as fluctuating between emotional states, was skillfully portrayed by soprano Ana Maria Labin, who navigated both chromatic intensity and joyful expression. Altist Terry Wey as Mary Cleopas faced some challenges with coloratura passages but created beautiful lyrical lines, while Joan Terleira's interpretation of John was marked by magnificent phrasing and a rich tone.

Haselböck guided the Orchestra Wiener Akademie in exploring the rich score, emphasizing both precision and lightness. The conductor rightly highlighted the wind players and the harpsichordist during the applause, acknowledging their significant contributions to the performance's success.

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one of the great achievements of a young genius