The oratorio "Esther" is the first English language oratorio and also the first oratorio by Handel based on a theater tragedy; Jean Racine's "Esther". For the first time Handel drew on his knowledge gathered from stays in Germany, Italy and England. He created his own particular style of oratorio writing, which differs from the later integrative works. Many sections of this composition harken back to the previously composed, "Brockes-Passion". The first performance took place in 1720. For the first public performance of the work in London in 1732, Handel arranged and enlarged "Esther". The Urtext of the Halle Handel Complete Edition presents the original version from 1720.
Reliable vocal score from the Urtext of the Halle Handel Edition
Edition no. : BA4047-90 / BA4047a
ISMN: 9790006520503
Composer / Author: Händel, Georg Friedrich
Title: Esther HWV 50a
Oratorium in sechs Szenen
First Version 1720
Detailed instrumentation: Soprano solo (2), Alto solo, Tenor solo (5), Bass solo, Mixed choir, Orchestra
Arranger: Köhs, Andreas
Editor: Server, Howard
Product format: Piano reduction, Urtext edition
Language(s) of work: German, English
Duration (approx.): 01:30:00
Level of difficulty (D): 4