Recorded in 1961, this version captures a time when traditional, large-scale performances of Messiah were more common, before the period performance movement gained momentum. Boult’s interpretation reflects the mid-20th-century style, with a full orchestra and choir, offering a rich, grand sound that contrasts with more recent historically informed performances.
The recording was made at a time when the legendary Joan Sutherland was at the peak of her powers, making it an important document of her artistry in the Baroque repertoire, which was somewhat rare for her.
Artist(s): Conductor – Sir Adrian Boult
Orchestra – London Symphony Orchestra
Chorus – London Symphony Chorus
Soprano Vocals – Joan Sutherland
Mezzo-soprano Vocals – Grace Bumbry
Chorus Master – John McCarthy
Bass Vocals – David Ward
Harpsichord – George Malcolm
Organ – Ralph Downes
Tenor Vocals – Kenneth McKellar
Recording Info: Producer: James Walker
Engineer: Kenneth Wilkinson
Recorded: 15-17 May, 10-12,16-17&25 Aug 1961 Kingsway Hall
Sourced from a 4-track tape
Analog: Transferred using a modified Nagra 4SJ tape deck feeding a Merrill Tape Preamp
Digital: Merging Hapi Analog to Digital Converter clocked by an Antelope Audio 10MX Atomic Clock
Power Conditioning: Shunyata Research Everest 8000 for all components
All components grounded to Shunyata ALTAIRA Hubs
1 Comfort Ye My People... Ev'ry Valley 7:16
2 And The Glory Of The Lord 3:13
3 Behold A Virgin Shall Conceive...O Thou That Tellest 7:21
4 Rejoice Greatly 4:41
5 He Was Despised (First Part Only) 5:35
6 Why Do The Nations 2:53
7 He That Dwelleth In Heaven...Thou Shalt Break Them 2:28
8 Hallelujah 4:34
9 I Know That My Redeemer Liveth 7:08
10 Worthy Is The Lamb - Amen 9:21
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