Release date: 28-02-2008

2008 Linn Records Limited triple lp Boxset edition, pressiong on 180gram vinyl =

A first-rate performance of Handel's Messiah in which the Dunedin Consort recreate the freshness, excitement and spontaneity of the work's first public performance in 1742. Unlike the thirty singers used in some later performances, this version features only twelve, of which seven are soloists, all performing in the choruses

"This superb new LP  features the composer s original version of the Messiah as it was premiered at Fishamble Music Hall, Dublin, in 1742." - LinnRecords =sealed

"Rarely has a vocal group made such an impact on the Scottish classical scene as quickly and impressively as the Dunedin Consort. Crisp singing and clear diction is matched by outstanding technical ability." Sunday Herald

"It is riveting. Balance is never a problem with Dunedin's radiant and intimate recording: it's Hallelujah chorus sturdy, effortless and exultant; it's small band of singers, from which the soloists emerge, perfectly matched. In the final reckoning, if I had to make a choice between recordings, my money would go on Dunedin's Messiah."   The Scotsman

"For an infinitely more rewarding fresh look at Handel's most familiar music, look no further than the Dunedin Consort's performance of Handel's first version, premiered at Dublin in 1742. Bizarrely under-represented in concert and on disc, the Dublin score contains some fascinating music that Handel never reused, such as the substantial chorus Break forth into joy. The exuberant direction by harpsichordist John Butt is meticulously stylish and utterly devoid of crassly pretentious egotism. The playing is unerringly spontaneous and dramatically integrated with singers who illustrate profound appreciation of text. Clare Wilkinson's “He was despised is most moving, Susan Hamilton effortlessly skips through a delicious Rejoice greatly, and bass Matthew Brook sings as if his life depends on it.