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The Art of Procuring a Patron

Donald Macleod explores Handel鈥檚 early career in Italy, as he builds relationships with influential patrons and establishes his reputation.

Donald Macleod begins a week exploring Handel鈥檚 relationships with the powerful figures who shaped his career. In Italy, the young composer made his name among aristocratic and ecclesiastical patrons, navigating a world of salons, academies and private performances. Rome offered opportunity despite restrictions on opera, while figures such as Cardinal Ottoboni and the Marchese Ruspoli provided both platforms and protection. Handel鈥檚 independence, however, remained striking: even while relying on patronage, he avoided being tied too closely to any single employer.

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George Frideric Handel
Harry Christophers, conductor
The Sixteen

Tu fedel? Tu costante?: Recitative and aria
George Frideric Handel
Carlotta Colombo, soprano
Fantazyas

Rodrigo: Overture, recitative and aria
George Frideric Handel
Il Complesso Barocco
Alan Curtis, conductor

Il Trionfo del Tempo e del Disinganno: Overture
George Frideric Handel
Le Concert d鈥橝str茅e
Emmanuelle Ha茂m, conductor

Il Trionfo del Tempo e del Disinganno: 鈥淧ure del cielo鈥
George Frideric Handel
Sabine Devieilhe, soprano
Pygmalion
Rapha毛l Pichon, conductor

La Resurrezione: excerpts
George Frideric Handel
Les Musiciens du Louvre
Marc Minkowski, conductor

Produced by Ellie Ajao for 麻豆社 Audio Wales

Release date:

59 minutes

On radio

Mon 20 Jul 2026 16:00

Broadcast

  • Mon 20 Jul 2026 16:00

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