This is a great example of the "old school" of English oratorio performance. Actually, it"s not that "old" because although it uses modern instruments, Raymond Leppard is as fully informed about Baroque performance practice as any period instrument guy. Beyond that, he has a stunning line-up of soloists, lead by Dame Janet Baker, who sing their roles with appropriately operatic fervor. At mid-price, this is one of the most important Handel recordings in the catalog. --David Hurwitz