Handel: Let the Bright Seraphim (Samson) | Rowan Pierce, David Blackadder & Academy of Ancient Music

Rowan Pierce and David Blackadder are the soloists in this full-length recording of 'Let The Bright Seraphim' from Handel's oratorio, Samson (HWV57).
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Let the bright seraphim
in burning row,
Their loud, uplifted angel trumpets blow.
Let the cherubic host,
in tuneful choirs,
Touch their immortal harps
with golden wires.
--------------------------------------
ACADEMY OF ANCIENT MUSIC
soprano: Rowan Pierce
trumpet: David Blackadder
director & harpsichord: Steven Devine
leader: Bojan Cicic
Recorded at All Hallows, Gospel Oak, London
August 2018
Executive Producer: Alexander Van Ingen
Music Producer: Matthew Bennett
Balance Engineer: Dave Rowell
Filming: Guy Wigmore
Project: Season Sessions 18-19
with grateful thanks to the AAM Strategic Recording Fund

[@wiccalite]

And I thought the Battle/Marsalis duet was the definitive rendition, but THIS.....? WOW!!!

[@toruscore]

Well I grew up with the Battle/Marsalis version, and it's hard not to compare. They are just very different characters...

[@andrewdavidson8854]

Battle/Marsalis is pretty epic. This is different and beautiful as well.

[@soavemusica]

The problem with the fast tempo in the middle section is that the solemn profundity is lost. I´m a fan of Ms. Battle as well, but I would have to prefer the interpretation of Joan Sutherland, who reaches something special there.

[@MichaelVeazey]

Battle's is a very American and romanticized sound . She sounds amazing in the right music, but to my ears, her Handel has several nuances that simply don't belong in the Baroque style, at least not as defined in the UK/Europe since the '70s. I think Rowan's is a much more stylish approach - it's just her Fach whereas Battle was great in other rep. Horses for courses. There's a lot to be said for specialising in what you can do excellently, like AAM.

[@soavemusica]

@@MichaelVeazey For me, autenthic does not mean appealing.

[@skoz3342]

As a vocalist, I am astounded by her skill, but can we also appreciate the trumpet player... good grief, the level of ability associated with Baroque trumpets is incredible and he pulls it off with such ease.

[@abuemma]

S Koz yeah, really hard to overstate how hard that is.

[@allwinds3786]

It's not really that difficult a piece, the holes in the trumpet make it more in tune.

[@larissaweidler8270]

@@allwinds3786 there's a galaxy of difference between someone merely playing in tune and someone playing like Blackadder here. He had perfect, and I mean perfect, control over pitch, volume and timbre every single note, and yet this was not stifled. One doesn't get much more musical than that.

[@MichaelVeazey]

yes very stylish and technically controlled playing/singing from both.

[@craigeverhart4755]

Well, yes, but he’s DAVID BLACKADDER and has worn that crown for years.

[@ianjeffery6744]

I love the way Ms Pierce's face lights up with smiles when she's not actually singing - clearly, she's enjoying herself! I hope this performance was rewarded with a standing ovation...

[@richmerne3593]

This young lady not only delivers a wonderful version but actually manages to get diction clear - not easy through all the twists and turns.

[@rosemaryallen2128]

I believe this rendition must come very close to what Handel heard in his mind's ear! Clarity and purity of sound are so rare, even among the very greatest sopranos. I've just listened to some! This was a truly magnificent synthesis of voice and trumpet.

[@charlesmaeger6162]

Rowan pPierce's strong, beautiful voice sounds out like a bright, golden trumpet.

[@ianjeffery6744]

Voice and Trumpet together are just sublime...

[@jeffjordan2538]

I’m in tears! She’s wonderful!

[@starnafin]

This is how baroque music should be done. The combination of a great soloist who is singing almost like an instrument such is her control with a great trumpet and a great band. Again I say wonderful.

[@kevinbyrne8339]

As a fan of 80&90's music, mainly dance and electronic...I can't believe how this makes me feel. Wonderful, ecstatic.. she's incredible!!! So is Handel.

[@elizabethsohler6516]

You have excellent taste.

[@papagen00]

most of Handel's music is about dance.

[@redbrian3655]

So often sopranos over-shoot their high F# and A in singing this and Rowan did not. This was outstanding. Blackadder was exceptional. This is a rendition to which many can aspire. Thanks

[@thomaslai5303]

I keep coming back to listen to this magnificent clip, so brilliant!

[@CaptainPedant]

What a superb dynamic balance between the trumpet and the soprano - and what a gorgeous tone from both! Go on up, Samson, all is forgiven.

[@starnafin]

A Great combination of soprano and trumpet. Rowen Pierce has wonderful control of her voice and standing next to the trumpet make it as it should be --a duet. Special playing from the wonderful band.. All in all , the best performance of this great aria I have heard. More "beautiful" voices have sung it , but this is my favourite.

[@jeffsahs9994]

Blackadder is such a great player ,and Pierce is just stunning.Bravo.

[@thays3649]

Stupendous singing. What a talent. Such musicianship!

[@shin-i-chikozima]

Her singing voice is out of this world This splendor of words can not attach it FromTokyo His Trumpet’s comfort is irreplaceable

[@sabinepalmer7365]

What a sparkling voice, thanks for the opportunity to get to know the artist.

[@wallshootout5616]

Absolute Spitze!Stimmung und Atmosphäre sind wunderbar!Die Sopranistin und die Trompete absolute europäische Spitzenklasse!Herz was willst Du mehr!!

[@zerozzyzzz]

A truly wonderful rendition of one of Handel's masterpieces. Thank you.

[@jeffreyloffman9430]

Just SO right. Thank you Rowan and David & the wonderful Academy musicians

[@user-skdkqodkwodkdoeoej]

클릭하자마자 쳄버 오케스트라 사운드가 너무 좋아서 기절..

[@dianatakyiwaahasante-tuoh866]

I waaaaaant to be her frieeeend... O goodness! She's amazing! Period.

[@chrissielefranc1916]

I thought I’d heard the best version of this until I heard this one, utter perfection both soprano and baroque trumpet. Brilliant.

[@Sagan_Starborn]

Dame Joan Sutherland laid waste to this

[@andreaweidemann5186]

Gorgeous bright voice! Great interpretation by the whole ensemble.

[@georgeconductor4224]

A voice like spun gold that could melt marble. She has had such a blessing to be thankful for

[@glynnwright1699]

I didn't expect to come across a performance that was better than Kathleen Battle's. This young lady has a glittering future ahead.

[@glynnwright1699]

@viodio tutti It sounds more faithful to the language to my English ear, and to others I have asked.

[@starnafin]

@viodio tutti I am sorry but it is.

[@LudwigvonDrake]

I discovered another new Handel singer here. I like the way she sings confidently, smiling to the trumpet and orchestra that are also flawless.

[@MichaelVeazey]

Absolutely. Rowan was made for this rep.

[@LudwigvonDrake]

Your comment encourages me.

[@papagen00]

If classical music belongs in a museum, we need to build more museums.

[@alanrichards6016]

This never fails to cheer me. Not sure isolation/quarantine would be bearable without it!

[@robpoissant295]

This the best performance os soprano soloist and trumpet in my lifetime.

[@norakhallouf9356]

How accomplished, both in technique and musically, a pleasure to have on the stage!

[@adolflazary5864]

Claro sonido Excelente dicción Impresionante Muchas gracias, cuanta alegría

[@sylvias.5936]

Der Gesang wunderbar: klar, schlank, hoch ! So wie ich es mir bei diesem Stück wünsche!

[@SirReginaldBlomfield1234]

👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@Cantorisalto1]

One word - Phenomenal!!! The best rendition I've ever heard. The real deal!!! The one to watch!!!!

[@Jimmyrus2]

Wow, I know nothing about this kind of music, classical, baroque, I do not know, I just wanted to hear this song because I am trying to learn how to read music on a mandolin, it is amazing! The ability of the musicians is incredible, and the singer is incredible! Thanks whoever posted this!

[@elizabethsohler6516]

I hope you have had success in your quest.

[@ps-ic8pm]

Ethereal and sublime. Perfection. And I understood every word from the beautiful Rowan. Great camerawork too!

[@Saira_Peter]

Beautiful voice and wonderful orchestra excellent

[@BelgradeEarlyMusicFestival]

Amazing playing and singing! Well done AAM, Rowan, David and our good friends Bojan and Steven 🎉😊

[@praksreedharan7086]

Brilliant and very clear rendition !

[@vladwexler2442]

Last night performance @ LA Phil was truly remarkable! Standing ovations!!!

[@AcademyofAncientMusic]

Delighted to hear you enjoyed!

[@vladwexler2442]

@@AcademyofAncientMusic as an Anchor we were given "Eternal Source of Light Divine". This was unforgettable magical moment. Rowan, David & Co definitely created that moment of Eternal Light for the audience. Is there a video of that piece coming up?

[@zatny]

This is such a perfect performance I can't stop listening to it. Please help!!

[@stephendise7946]

🙂

[@JoAnnaJohnson-j1v]

This gave me literal chills. Its usually painful for me to both sing and listen to this work without cringing (because Its usually not done well). All of the musicians involved were simply fabulous.

[@paperlapap4404]

Tolle Stimme, die die wunderbare Musik von Georg Friedrich Händel sehr schön und beeindruckend darbietet. Beeindruckend sind auch die Musiker mit ihren Instrumenten.

[@wallshootout5616]

A wonderful and really a golden Interpretation of that aria!Congratulation!

[@scottgardner2579]

How anyone can ‘dislike’ this is simply incredible! A stunning performance from voice, trumpet and of course the orchestra! Thank you!

[@mitchelvalentino1569]

Masterful. Thank you so much!!

[@michaelmiller1215]

The best performance of this piece!

[@lovecat4493]

Thank you Ms. Pierce for your angelic voice with authentic style! BRAVA!

[@alaskafan21]

I haven't heard this level of excellence in a long time. She is amazing. What a wonderful treat. I look forward to hearing her in other arias !

[@WilsonTadei-rh4sz]

Música clássica ,será ouvida até o fim dos tempos. Foram compostas por gênios. ❤❤❤

[@jrefugiotriguerocontreras1085]

Magnífica interpretación excelente voz y su belleza felicitó por subir esta música saludos desdé México hasta pronto

[@maggoteater2290]

Damn Peter griffin is killing it

[@trailblazingdiva]

FANTASTIC

[@kevinbyrne8339]

I just love this.. cannot stop listening to it. I love all sorts of music, mainly electronic and dance, contemporary. But this... I feel weak. Just gorgeous.

[@mmuussiiccooppaattaa]

YAAAAAAAS!!!! ESTO ES LO QUE QUERÍA ESCUCHAR POR LA CHUCHA!!! PEDAZO DE VOZ LA SOCIA SE LAS MANDÓ!!! Let the bright seraphim in burning row, Their loud, uplifted angel trumpets blow. Let the cherubic host, in tuneful choirs, Touch their immortal harps with golden wires.

[@SkipperNunana]

Oh... This is great! And how well cultured is her embouchure. Bravi!

[@anniebroadbent7961]

Sparkling duet between the crystal voice of the singer and the magnificent trumpeter. Uplifting 💕

[@adolflazary5864]

Duo maravilloso

[@captebbtide]

Not only movie star beautiful, but well-equiped with the strong, horn like soprano voice needed for difficult Handel aria.

[@paperlapap4404]

Tolle Stimme dieser Frau, die die wunderbare Musik von Georg Friedrich Händel wunderbar singt.

[@sh69475]

dang the amount of skill the singer and the trumpet player have is so cool to listen to!

[@SherbetHead66]

Pierce & Blackadder - fab duet

[@AmusedCondorBird-pq7fk]

Amazing! Her voice is beautiful. While not as big as Dame Joan's, it is as lovely and what control she has! Brava! Needles to say the trumpeter is as good! A flawless performance! Bravi!

[@glynnwright1699]

Looking forward to hearing them at the Barbican, this Thursday.

[@sunflowerfields4409]

STANDS UP AND CHEERS!! WOW!

[@allenmoon545]

I'm just here listening to this for History lesson, sounds amazing!

[@ColocasiaCorm]

I love songs that talk about the instruments in the song.

[@perolsen4271]

Brilliant.

[@demeraradove]

Isaiah 6:2,3 2. Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. 3. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.

[@paacer]

Outstanding rendition of this lovely song .

[@jeffjordan2538]

I’m in tears. BEAUTUFUL!

[@NewTrinityBaroque]

As always we love the videos of our friends at AAM. And Rowan Pierce and David Blackadder give truly a good performance of this piece. On our end, we have Radoslava Vorgić and Justin Bland who also gave this composition justice - check it out at kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6K5ZIeVjKt2oaM and let us know how do you like it! 😊🎻🎶 Thank you!

[@pianoman58]

Wow - awesome - I love it!

[@baroqueacademy]

Very nice performance.

[@garethbimson2001]

Pure class David. Bravo !....Rowan was good too !!

[@beltstst]

Just so good!

[@silviosaditesche1556]

Toda a graça e sensualidade do Barroco, dos quais o alemão Händel foi o expoente máximo!

[@jccoupe4531]

Singing with beautifully voice 💐

[@gtnsteve1]

Truly wonderful stuff! It's a treat to be able to hear this without 6 million promo ads.

[@MsCLawless]

BRAVO!

[@misssarahashplant31]

A beautiful performance. Many thanks for the upload.

[@davidasipita6398]

Miss Sarah Ashplant excellent work

[@joharris5014]

Yeah!!! This makes me so happy! Love it!

[@danielrodriguez9630]

Este duo.Es impresionante.Trompeta que guia a una gran voz...

[@thesaucegroup1877]

Perfect

[@leannawolfe741]

So good.

[@ralfbeckmann597]

Awesome voice

[@gtnsteve1]

What beautiful work@!!!!!!

[@chriswilliams8452]

Bravo!

[@Andrew4Handel]

Amazing singer!

[@Readyteddygo]

Wow. She’s really good 👍

[@simongardiner949]

Handel had a very demanding audience at the Haymarket! He therefore asked a lot of his soloists - especially sopranos - to produce these crowd pulling 'musical fireworks'. But this girl has done great. (Kiri Te Kanawa was great at this piece too as she had such a powerful thorax.)

[@thomasfmcandrew5835]

Magnificent, both. WOW!

[@TheJonnyzeus]

Wow!

[@RichardLee-mi3gf]

Wonderful. 🎶

[@jongende3486]

Amazing

[@tonymoretti1756]

Blackadder blowed his trumpet phenomenal.

[@wmialil]

So much talent

[@Silver64688]

Nice interpretation!

[@stanw909]

NICE !!!!!!!