Jephtha

The story of the composition of Jephtha by Handel has all the makings of a drama in its own right. This is the last oratorio written by the ageing musician whose sight was fast failing, but perhaps the most moving. The work bears the marks of the illness that afflicted him while he was composing it, but which did not undermine his faith. “Whatever is, is right” sings the chorus. Handel’s conviction and energy appear unshakeable. The original score bears the marks of the musician’s pain: “Arrived here on Wednesday 13 February. Couldn’t continue because of my left eye.” A little later, on 23 February, he writes: “feeling slightly better, Have resumed work”. These words are reflected in his music. The huge star Joyce DiDonato will in turn embody this painful journey suffused with the vocal sumptuosity which is the hallmark of the musician’s entire œuvre.

Production Théâtre des Champs-Elysées