Search - George Frederick Handel, Neville Marriner, Granville Jones :: Handel: Orchestral Works [Box Set]

Classic Handel Collection

Michael B. Richman | Portland, Maine USA | 07/08/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This 8-CD Box Set of Handel's Orchestral Works by Neville Marriner and the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields is truly special. Marriner, in many ways one of the leading figures in the authentic-instruments movement before the phrase was even coined, brings a fresh spirit and excitement to these old familiar works. I opted for this set over the comparable slim, paper-sleeved box set from DG/Archiv by Trevor Pinnock and the English Concert because for a little bit more money, you get a lot more music. Both sets of course have the Water Music Suites, Music for the Royal Fireworks, and Concerti Grossi Ops. 3 & 6. But the Marriner set also adds the Organ Concerti, the Oboe Concerti and other nuggets like "Arrival of the Queen of Sheba." As I already own other Pinnock Box Sets, I'm sure musically it and the Marriner are on par, but I am always one to opt for more music as long as the product is of similar quality. If you agree, then you won't be sorry by adding this classic Handel box set to your collection."