La Resurrezione, HWV 47

In this oratorio, the divine and the earthly stand in opposition: delivering animated reflections on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are (in the divine sphere) the devil, Lucifer, and an angel, and (on the earthly level) Mary Magdalen, Maria Cleophas and Saint John. This early work by the just 23-year-old George Frideric Handel was, appropriately, premiered on Easter Sunday, 8 April 1708, conducted by Arcangelo Corelli. The huge financial costs of the stage set-ups indicate a magnificent presentation. Merseburger Hofmusik will perform it in concert form against the dignified backdrop of the imperial cathedral. The formal and harmonic boldness of Handel’s musical setting of the libretto by Carlo Sigismondo Capece is absolutely fascinating. La Resurrezione is heard relatively rarely – all the more reason not to miss this performance.

Tickets: 25, 22 €