At the Walt Disney Concert Hall, two liturgical works by classic composers – Handel’s Dixit Dominus and Bach’s Magnificat – come to life with the aid of influential operatic singers.
By John Lavitt
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 03-25-2025
The Walt Disney Concert Hall shimmered with sacred fervor as conductor Emmanuelle Haïm led the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a thrilling opening to The Handel Project Festival. Pairing Handel’s Dixit Dominus and Bach’s Magnificat—two towering works of Baroque liturgy. From the opening notes, the performance was a testament to the enduring power of 18th-century genius, delivered with 21st-century verve. Indeed, Haïm Leads Handel & Bach was a roaring start to the LA Phil’s The Handel Project Festival.
The audience was transported into a realm of divine music as the first notes of Handel’s Dixit Dominus filled the auditorium. Haïm, a Baroque specialist, balanced period-style articulation with the grand Romantic sweep of her passionate conducting. The LA Phil, known for its precision and emotive playing, showcased their technical prowess and deep understanding of baroque styles.
The ensemble of soloists was nothing short of stellar. Each singer brought their unique flair, with soprano and alto voices intertwining in a stunning display of vocal agility and emotional depth. This collaboration among the vocalists created a mesmerizing experience, highlighting the dramatic and revelatory essence of Handel’s work. The strings were particularly noteworthy in support, producing a warm, lush sound that beautifully complemented the choir’s soaring vocals.
Following the intermission, the program shifted to Bach’s Magnificat, which demands vocal strength and interpretive sensitivity. Haïm’s interpretation guided the orchestra and singers through the work’s joyful exuberance and profound spirituality. The LA Phil delivered a vibrant and dynamic performance, with the orchestra’s playing resonating in the Walt Disney Concert Hall’s remarkable acoustics.
The soloists once again shone, particularly in the jubilant “Et exsultavit” and the reflective “Quia respexit,” where their voices soared effortlessly through intricate passages. The highlight was the powerful voice of South African tenor Lunga Eric Hallam. His voice filled the concert hall with a commanding presence, delighting the audience with its charisma.
Overall, this concert celebrated baroque music that left a lasting impression. Emmanuelle Haïm’s expertise, paired with the LA Phil and an exceptional cast of singers, created an unforgettable evening filled with beauty and artistry. Handel and Bach’s works, performed with passion and precision, remind us of the timeless power of classical music.
This performance provided a vibrant experience for anyone who appreciates the intricacies of liturgical compositions. Indeed, from watching the audience, the performance resonated deeply with both classical music aficionados and casual listeners.
Photos Courtesy of The Los Angeles Philharmonic