Academy of Ancient Music (AAM) and Cambridge Handel Opera Company (CHOC) have proudly released a world premiere recording that revives a significant piece of musical history.
The Judgment of Paris, a 1701 composition by John Weldon, was the surprise winner of a prestigious music competition set by a group of English aristocrats. Under the esteemed direction of Julian Perkins, this is the first recording of Weldon's winning work since it was composed 333 years ago.
The release follows AAM and CHOC’s critically acclaimed performance of The Judgment of Paris at Trinity College Cambridge (2023). “We’ve waited 300 years for this revival” commented Richard Morrison in his ★★★★ review for the Times.
Julian Perkins, Artistic Director of Cambridge Handel Opera Company, said: “This recording is a labour of love, celebrating the ingenuity and dramatic flair of John Weldon's setting of William Congreve’s libretto. We’ve aimed to capture the essence of the 1701 performances, bringing this remarkable music to life for contemporary audiences. This recording is a testament to the collaborative spirit and profound dedication of everyone involved.”
The recording brings together a stellar cast, featuring Thomas Walker, Jonathan Brown, Helen Charlston, Kitty Whately, Aksel Rykkvin, Anna Dennis and Anna Cavaliero. Julian Perkins directs the AAM Choir and Orchestra. Dame Emma Kirkby provided expert advice on vocal technique and pitch standards, ensuring historical accuracy.
In typical AAM fashion, the comprehensive 70-page booklet offers essays by experts Professor Peter Holman, Dr Alan Howard, Dr Ruth Smith, Julian Perkins, Olive Baldwin and Thelma Wilson, Dame Emma Kirkby and David Blackadder - as well as by chocolate expert Marc Meltonville.
This latest recording follows AAM and CHOC’s co-production of John Eccles’ Semele (AAM012, released 2021). Opera Now commented: “This release marks a significant new chapter in the performance history of Eccles’ Semele. Performed to the very highest vocal, instrumental and scholarly standards, it is simply unmissable.'' The Guardian awarded the recording 5* and commented: “this recording puts this Semele, and its composer, firmly on the map”.