Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, commemorates the story of Judas Maccabeus, who in 167 B.C.E. led the Maccabean Jews against the invasion by the Seleucids, thus preserving Jewish culture and religion by regaining control of Jerusalem and rededicating the Temple. Handel recast the story of Judas Maccabeus as a celebratory ode to King George II, with music of unprecedented refinement, gripping suspense, and drama. Nicholas McGegan leads the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and the U.C. Berkely Chamber Chorus, and soloists in a Harmonia Mundi recording released in 1993.
Tonight’s program will be available as a stream for two weeks following the broadcast. Find it at https://www.wfmt.com/listen/
