Johann Adolf Hasse. Requiem in C major, Miserere, 4 Motets

Christian Century, Dec 13, 2003

Il Fondamento/Dombrecht and Le Parlement de Musique/Gester. Naive 20004, $16 (2 CDs).

Hasse was a highly respected opera composer, whose fans included Bach and Handel. It's easy to hear why: he delivered lovely tunes, excellent craftsmanship and a strong sense of drama. This is one of the most life-affirming requiems, and the performance sparkles. The Miserere is a dramatic setting of Psalm 51. This half-price set is a terrific way to meet this composer.