Capella Cracoviensis: Judas Maccabaeus

For the second time this summer, Capella Cracoviensis reaches for stories of Biblical heroes penned by George Frideric Handel: on 3 August, St Catherine’s Church resounds with the oratorio Judas Maccabaeus. Handel turned Thomas Morell’s weak, listless libretto into a dramatic tale of the Old Testament priest who led Jews to victory in the revolt against the Seleucid Empire. The oratorio starts with mournful lamentations, which soon give way to calls to battle. They are followed by the tumult of combat and the triumphant victory – rumour has it that Handel borrowed huge kettle drums from the Royal Artillery to fully evoke the moment. Capella Cracoviensis uses its own instruments, performing alongside guest soloists Rebecca Bottone (soprano), Marta Wryk (mezzo-soprano), Joshua Ellicott (tenor) and Peter Harvey (bass).
It is said that the famous chorus See, the conqu’ring hero comes! from part 3 was one of the most popular compositions of the 18th century. It sounds just as beautiful in the 21st century – find out for yourselves! (Barbara Skowrońska)