Performer: Marie Lys

All the hallmarks of a Muti performance are on display as the maestro returns to conduct the Philharmonia Orchestra in a magnificent reading of Verdi's Requiem. 

Handel's last English oratorio Jephtha is beautifully performed by Christophe Rousset and Les Talens Lyriques in Halle, although the drama is a bit slow off the mark. 

Handel's third English oratorio is presented in strictly traditional fashion at the 2024 Halle Handel Festival but nonetheless generates drama, excitement and excellent singing. 

Martin G Berger exhaustively reworks the story and the libretto of Salieri's Cublai, gran kan de' Tartari and throws the kitchen sink at this new production, but not everything lands well. 

How can one focus on the music? Purcell’s music is interspersed with contemporary interludes by Atsushi Sakaï in an overly busy staging.