Credits:

Pandolfis Consort

Description:

In the 18th century, when recording equipment did not yet exist, it was necessary to arrange the large-scale oratorio *The Creation* for a smaller ensemble in order to enjoy it at home or among friends. How small could the instrumental ensemble be made? How should the biblical texts in the arias, choruses, and recitatives be handled? Anton Vranitsky, a composer and arranger of the time, found solutions to these various challenges through an extremely innovative approach: he set the musical parts for string quartet and had the biblical texts recited. This allows listeners to enjoy the entire work to their hearts content. The music is performed by the Pandolfi Consort, an ensemble using period instruments, while the narration is provided by Austrian actor Fritz von Friedl. The result is a truly compelling performance.Naxos Japan