First performed in 1742, "Messiah" composed by George Frideric Handel has become one of the best-known and most performed choral works. The Messiah is a cornerstone recording in the history of Sparrow Records. As executive producer, Billy Ray Hearn's intention was make this recording more friendly to the "man in the pew" by using a choral conductor, John Alldis, and modern orchestration. There was no attempt to be authentic or "purist." The purpose was to show this to be the greatest praise and worship composition ever. Featuring the world-renowned London Philharmonic Orchestra and the London Philharmonic Choir, The Messiah is one of the most complete recordings and best selling versions of "Messiah."Remastered for superior sound, The Messiah (Platinum Edition) will continue to be the preeminent recording of Handel's "Messiah."
I think this is a beautiful recording. This rendition of Messiah is actually a re-orchestration for modern symphony orchestra. There are many added voices and parts that Handel never wrote. Having played the Messiah many times as a violinist, I'm not sure I agree with the full orchestration. I like the more intimate orchestration that Handel provided with just the baroque instrumentation of his time. If you enjoy the full sound of..