Which recording of Handel's Messiah should I get?

I already have one recording and it's not very good. Please recommend a recording to me.

Anonymous2007-11-19T16:52:36Z

Favorite Answer

These are some of the best recordings, according to many critics:

On period instruments:

Marshall, Robbin, Brett, Rolfe Johnson, Hale. Monteverdi Choir, English Baroque Soloists, John Eliot Gardiner.

Kirkby, Watkinson, Elliot, Thomas. Academy of Ancient Music Choir and Orchestra, Cristopher Hogwood.

Gale, Lipovsek, Hollweg, Kenney. Stockholm Chamber Choir. Vienna Concentus Musicus, Nikolaus Harnoncourt.

On modern instruments:

Harwood, Baker, Esswood, Tear. Ambrosian Singers. English Chamber Orchestra, Charles Mackerras.

Harper, Watts, Wakefield, Shirley-Quirk. London Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Colin Davis.

Erickson, McNair, Hodgson, Humphrey, Stilwell. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Robert Shaw.

del_icious_manager2007-11-19T03:22:10Z

This is so much a matter of personal taste. However, the link below lists the accepted 'classic' recordings of Handel's masterpiece.

Enjoy!

rdenig_male2007-11-19T03:30:27Z

You need to consider whether you want one with a modern orchestra, large choir and perhaps the Mozart additions (yes, he did edit Messiah!) or one with 'authentic' instruments, a small choir, perhaps a counter tenor or male alto. Until you have sorted these parameters it is difficult to make a recommendation.

toutvas bien2007-11-19T05:07:14Z

the Robert Shaw recording is marvellous

?2016-05-24T08:02:02Z

the CD is "Let Is Snow Baby, Let It Reindeer" by Relient K. i think it's the best version because it's kindof a punk rock version.

Show more answers (1)