Eccentricity or experimentation? Israel in Egypt is Handel’s only oratorio in which the composer puts the choir at the forefront, with its parts comprising two thirds of the entire work. Although the tactic struck mid-18th century Londoners as too peculiar and ill-chosen, today it captivates audiences the world over. By showcasing the choral parts, Handel invokes words of the Old Testament to recall the history of the nation of Israel: from the lament mourning the death of Joseph, via plagues falling on Egypt and the crossing of the Red Sea, culminating with the joy of the Israelites on their release from enslavement.

The Biblical tale is presented by Kraków Philharmonic in December with soloists, orchestra and choir led by Łukasz Borowicz. Therefore, to answer the original question – simply a masterpiece! (Barbara Skowrońska)

George Frideric Handel / Felix Mendelssohn Israel in Egypt

Alexandra Lowe – soprano
Xenia Puskarz-Thomas – alto
James Gilchrist – tenor
Blaise Malaba – bass
Kraków Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir
Piotr Piwko – choirmaster
Łukasz Borowicz – conductor