George Frideric Handel - Chandos Anthems (Arcangelo; Jonathan Cohen)

Information

Composer: George Frideric Handel

• O Sing Unto the Lord a New Song, HWV 249b
• Have Mercy Upon Me, O God, HWV 248
• As Pants the Hart, HWV 251b
• Let God Arise, HWV 256a

Arcangelo

Jonathan Cohen, conductor

Date: 2025

Label: Alpha Classics

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In 1717, after performing his Water Music, Handel began composing for James Brydges, later the Duke of Chandos, at his estate in Cannons. There, he created the Cannons Concert with a small ensemble of instrumentalists and singers. Handel wrote eleven anthems and a Te Deum for the Duke, including revised works like As pants the hart and adaptations such as O sing unto the Lord and Have mercy upon me, O God, a paraphrase of the Miserere. The Alleluia in Let God arise foreshadows the Messiah’s famous chorus. Arcangelo and Jonathan Cohen now revive four of these anthems.

Arcangelo is a renowned period performance ensemble led by founder and artistic director Jonathan Cohen. Known for its chamber music-inspired approach, the group has received international acclaim, critical awards, and invitations to top venues and festivals worldwide. In 2024, it became the first Principal Ensemble in Residence at the London Handel Festival and previously held a similar position at Wigmore Hall. Arcangelo has performed at prestigious locations such as the BBC Proms, Vienna Konzerthaus, and Carnegie Hall. Its acclaimed discography includes 30 recordings, with award-winning albums featuring works by Handel, Buxtehude, C.P.E. Bach, and collaborations with top soloists.

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