In 18th-century London, the operatic stage was as much a site of social spectacle as of musical innovation, shaped by star performers, fashionable audiences and the ambitions of a rapidly expanding cultural scene and at its centre stood Handel.

George Frideric Handel
Concerto Grosso Op.6 No.6
Torni omai la pace from Tolomeo
No, più soffrir non voglio from Alessandro 

Giovanni Bononcini
Prelude from Il Lamento d’Olimpia 

George Frideric Handel
False Imagine from Ottone 

Giovanni Bononcini
Difese mi giurasti from Astianatte 

John Butt director
Nardus Williams soprano

In 18th-century London, the operatic stage was as much a site of social spectacle as of musical innovation, shaped by star performers, fashionable audiences and the ambitions of a rapidly expanding cultural scene. At its centre stood Handel, whose works were brought vividly to life by leading international singers and musicians, two of whom were italian rivals, Francesca Cuzzoni and Faustina Bordoni.

Fuelled by public intrigue and partisan audiences, their famed rivalry became part of London’s cultural fabric, as did the striking contrast between their voices: Cuzzoni’s pure, expressive lyricism set against Bordoni’s brilliance and virtuosity.

Tickets: £6 – £30 (+ booking fee)

If you have access requirements, please contact info@dunedin-consort.org.uk and we will reserve seating for you.

• Included in Edinburgh subscription season, save up to 20% when buying 2+ concerts at the same time – book online at www.thequeenshall.net, in person at The Queen’s Hall box office, or call 0131 668 2019