Ecstatic Visions

Handel’s Silete venti, the major work on this program, is a spectacular solo motet for soprano and Baroque orchestra, one that rivals his best operatic scenes. It places a deeply religious soul within a naturalistic context, where rustling leaves and blooming flowers prompt a lush meditation on love and happiness. Ecstatic Visions spotlights members of the ensemble as well, in rapturous instrumental music by Ciprano da Rore, Johann Schmeltzer, an...