I must thank the Rough Guide for recommending this two CD set of organ concertos very well performed by Paul Nicholson on the organ at St Lawrence Whitchurch on the very organ that Handel used adds an air of authenticity. . Like Bach, Handel was very well known for his proficiency on the organ and so it require quite a bit of skill o perform these concertos. Even though I have not heard any other version I cannot imagine a more impassioned interpretation than Roy Goodman who leads the Brandeburg Consort from the harpsichord..
Every one of these concertos is quite movingly played including the transcription of one organ concerto made by Handel for harp very well played by Francis Kelly. The opus 4 works tend to be more lighthearted and the opus 7 concertos are meatier in terms of length and musical ideas. Some of my favorite moments include the very long string introduction to the Adagio in opus 4 no. 3which brought tears to my eyes. The entire opus 4 no 4 which starts with an allegro and ends with a choral Alleluia is one of the best concertos I have ever heard. The concluding Menuet and Gavotte f opus 7 no. 5 were also quite beautiful.
I believe this collection has to be your first choice for all llovers of classical music
Please excuse typos I have a neurologic disease.
