George Frideric Handel composed his oratorio Samson in 1741, immediately following completion of Messiah. The enthusiasm for the work by many of Handel’s contemporaries survived into the 19th century, when Samson was considered among the most popular works at large choir festivals. The story tells of Samson, the man of superhuman strength, leader of the people of Israel, who let himself be seduced by Dalila and then reveals the secret of his strength: it lies in his long hair. Dalila cuts off his hair when he sleeps so that the Philistines can overpower him. However, with trust in God, the hero regains his strength, topples the temple and in so doing dies in their ruins.

It is not only the impressive choruses of the Israelites and the Philistines which make this oratorio one of his great masterpieces. In his recording from the Dresdner Frauenkirche Nicholas McGegan succeeds in conveying his enthusiasm for Handel’s Samson to all of the participants, especially the listeners. It would not be surprising if this recording acted to spark a rediscovery of this great work for concert and music hall.