Haendel : Saul. Purves, Christophers.

   in Early Music Today (Mar, 2013)
This is a welcome return by The Sixteen to the area of Handel’s sacred dramas, which have long been a key part of the ensemble’s repertoire; indeed, it’s surprising that it’s taken so long for Harry Christophers to record Saul, one of Handel’s greatest works. Perhaps he was waiting for the right singers to come along: if so, he’s certainly found them in Christopher Purves (Saul) and Sarah Connolly (David), whose performances could not be bettered. Indeed, the whole cast is excellent, with Robert Murray (Jonathan) and Joelle Harvey (Michal) also on sparkling form, as are the chorus and orchestra. Christophers paces the drama perfectly, and draws out every emotional nuance …