Jephtha was the last full-length composition that Handel wrote. (The Triumph of Time and Truth of 1757 was almost entirely made up of pre-existing music.) Given this fact, and also that the actual writing of it was an inordinately laborious task for Handel as he fought with rapidly failing eyesight, its incomparable depth of expression and personal commitment make the whole work a profound and magnificent conclusion to his life"s output. Based on a story from Judges XI, it tells of Jephtha leading the Israelites against the Ammonites and his ultimate sacrifice. This rare recording by Marriner and the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields has been reissued one CD only once, in 1990, and featuring a galaxy of British vocal stars - the late Anthony Rolfe Johnson, Alfreda Hodgson, Paul Esswood and Emma Kirkby, among them. Long unavailable, the recording is now restored to circulation, re-coupled with three arias - Meine Seele h rt im Sehen, S e Stille and Look down, harmonious Saint, sung by the late Robert Tear. Original notes and full texts are included. "The orchestral playing is impeccably stylish and alive, and the soloists can hardly be faulted. Margaret Marshall . is outstanding and in the title-role Anthony Rolfe Johnson sings his coloratura arias with admirable precision" Gramophone Artists: Paul Esswood (countertenor), Alfreda Hodgson (mezzo-soprano), Anthony Rolfe Johnson (tenor), Christopher Keyte (bass), Emma Kirkby (soprano), Robert Tear (tenor), Southend Boys" Choir, Chorus of St. Martin-in-the-Fields. Composers: Handel. Conductors: Sir Neville Marriner. Orchestras: Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields