George Frideric Handel - Theodora (Leonardo García Alarcón)

Information

Composer: George Frideric Handel

• Theodora, HWV 68

Sophie Junker; Dara Savinova; Christopher Lowrey

Matthew Newlin; Frederico Projecto; Andreas Wolf

Chœur de Chambre de Namur

Millenium Orchestra

Leonardo García Alarcón, conductor

Date: 2026

Label: Ricercar

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Theodora, first performed in London in 1750, marked a striking departure in George Frideric Handel’s oratorio output. Unlike his earlier works centered on grand Old Testament narratives and heroic leaders, this composition focuses on an intimate Christian martyrdom. The story of Theodora emphasizes personal faith, moral conviction, and emotional struggle rather than public triumph or spectacle. By shifting from large-scale drama to a deeply human and spiritual narrative, Handel created a work of poignant intensity, exploring the inner conflicts and sacrifices of early Christianity with a refined and contemplative musical language.

Leonardo García Alarcón (b. 1976), an Argentine musician, moved to Europe in 1997 to study at the Geneva Conservatory and soon delved into Baroque music under Gabriel Garrido. He founded Cappella Mediterranea and the Millenium Orchestra, becoming artistic director of the Namur Chamber Choir in 2010. He balances teaching in Geneva with performances across Europe and South America. Alarcón has revived several forgotten operas and earned acclaim for conducting Monteverdi, Cavalli, Rameau, and others. Despite pandemic disruptions in 2020, he adapted with virtual performances. His recordings, including collaborations and rediscovered works, have received widespread critical praise and numerous awards.