Story perspectives

Handel's 'Saul' Shines in Urgent London Festival Premiere

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

George Frideric Handel's oratorio Saul premiered in 1739, featuring innovative orchestration with a carillon and oversized kettledrums.
The London Handel Festival's principal ensemble Arcangelo delivered an urgent yet elegant performance.
The oratorio narrates David's victory over the Philistines and hints at a same-sex bond with Jonathan.
Notable performances included Christopher Purves as Saul and Hugh Cutting as David, with "Oh Lord, Whose Mercies Numberless," and the performance remained compelling.

1 of 1

Story summary

George Frideric Handel's oratorio Saul premiered in 1739, featuring innovative orchestration with a carillon and oversized kettledrums.
The London Handel Festival's principal ensemble Arcangelo delivered an urgent yet elegant performance.
The oratorio narrates David's victory over the Philistines and hints at a same-sex bond with Jonathan.
Notable performances included Christopher Purves as Saul and Hugh Cutting as David, with "Oh Lord, Whose Mercies Numberless," and the performance remained compelling.