Semele’s Obscurity: A Handel Scandal!
One would think Handel’s Semele should have been an immediate hit & taken its place in the standard repertoire. Besides Handel’s music, the piece features a libretto by William Congreve, the plot of which is replete with elements of grand opera & mythology. Who doesn’t like to hear great tunes, plus tales of gods & goddesses behaving badly? Juicy storyline & pleasing audio aside, Semele received a lukewarm reaction at its 1744 premiere & was largely forgotten until the 20th century.
This Saturday, April 21, Handel Choir of Baltimore is presenting Semele at the Church of the Redeemer in Baltimore. I recently spoke with Melinda O’Neal, Handel Choir of Baltimore’s Artistic Director & Conductor, about the performance.
Handel Choir of Baltimore’s Semele
Tags:Church of the Redeemer Baltimore, Handel, Handel Choir of Baltimore, jealousy, Juno, Jupiter, Melinda O'Neal, revenge, Semele
