Il Fondamento . Collegium Vocale Gent olv. Daniel Reuss

You are probably acquainted with the Dutch conductor Daniel Reuss, who gave some unforgettable choral concerts in the Blue Hall. He now accompanied on the platform by the Baroque Orchestra Il Fondamento and Collegium Vocale Gent; well-respected interpreters of masterpieces by George Frederic Handel (1685-1759). Handel was a leading figure in the musical life of London, earning his position with his Italian opera 'Rinaldo' (1711) and his 'Te Deum' (1713). During his time in London, he wrote many works for special occasions. He composed the 'Chandos Anthems' during his stay (1716-1718) at the castle of James Brydges, the flamboyant Duke of Chandos. Handel conducted the orchestra of this most beautiful castle chapel. His twelve 'Chandos Anthems' were built on the English liturgical choral tradition, the first six written for three-part choir using different Psalm texts. The third 'Anthem' was based on Psalm 51, the 'Miserere'. In all these pieces Handel enchants the listener with his well-considered virtuosity, while maintaining a clear choral and orchestral style. We know very little about the historical development of this 'Silete Venti' motet. It was probably composed between 1720 and 1730, perhaps during his visit to Venice in 1729. Just as in the 'Dixit Dominus', the specific imagery of the text stimulated him to create a lively and pictorial composition.