Sydney Philharmonia Choirs Presents
ChorusOz 2018: G.F. Handel's dramatic oratorio 'SAUL'
10 June 2018, 5 P.M. SundayConcert Hall, Sydney Opera House
It's again that time of the year in June when hundreds of passionate singers from interstate and all
over the world join the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs choristers for the annual ChorusOz weekend of singing, fun and
friendship, finishing with a performance on the world-famous Sydney Opera House Concert Hall with a professional orchestra and soloists. Briefly, Handel's Oratorio 'SAUL'
George Frideric Handel's Saul, HWV 53, is a dramatic oratorio in three acts with a libretto by Charles Jennens. Taken from the First Book of Samuel, the story of Saul focuses on the first king of Israel's relationship with his eventual successor, David, one which turns from admiration to envy and hatred, ultimately leading to the downfall of the eponymous monarch, Saul. Handel composed it in 1738, including the famous "Dead March", a funeral anthem for Saul and his son Jonathan, and some of Handel's most dramatic choral pieces. Saul was first performed at the Kind's Theatre in London on 16th January 1739. The work was a success at its London premiere and was revived by Handel in subsequent seasons.