Search - Ama Deus Ensemble :: Handel: Judas Maccabaeus

Another Superb Period Instrument Oratorio Recording from Lyr

John X. Pena | danbury, CT | 11/18/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"At a time when American record labels are either in drastic retrenchment mode or have folded their tents altogether, this adventurous smaller label is somehow managing to turn out fine new product.

In the case of Lyrichord's recent Haydn Seasons, the sponsoring organization appears to have been its excellent community chorus whose members, one presumes, banded together and made it happen. The label's more recent oratorio recording, Handel's brilliant Judas Maccabaeus, features what are almost certainly all fully professional performing forces. There is a crack period-instrument orchestra; the choristers---no matter how wonderfully trained (and they are here)---cannot possibly be volunteer singers. Just have a listen to those rich male voices, especially the tenors, and the gorgeous sound of the

women.

Anyhow, whatever angel (or angels) made this CD set possible is/are blessed. The CD profits from its "live" recording: conductor Valentine Radu evinces energy and verve throughout, but also finds charming lyricism too. The Philadelphia hall at the new Kimmel Center on Broad Street is appropriately chamber-sized, just right for a baroque approach, and nowhere do audience noises intrude on the proceedings. In a bunch of places, though, you can sense them wanting to explode into applause. This is, after all, the musical source of "See, the conquering hero comes" and any number of grand arias, duets and choruses.

Mr. Radu's Judas, Timothy Bentsch, offers a heroic blend of ardent, trumpet-like airs, tender quiet moments and impressive coloratura. He's as fine a tenor Judas as I've heard, avoiding the effete approach of some better-known British tenors, yet stylish too. His singing alone is worth the price of the set.

So, hats off to the Lyrichord people and this fine Philadelphia group---they are called Ama Deus!!---for keeping our American listening market alive and very well, thank you. A worthy effort. Handel well-served."