direct from the Royal Albert Hall, London
J. Downes, who died in 1710, wrote in Roscius Anglicanus of the first performance in 1691: 'King Arthur was excellently adorned with scenes and machines. The musical part set by famous Mr Henry Purcell : and dances made by Mr Jo Priest. The play and the music pleased the Court and City, and being well performed, 'twas very gainful to the company.'
Josephine Barstow (soprano) Norma Burrowes (soprano) Elizabeth Gale (soprano) Robert Tear (tenor)
Denis Dowling (baritone) David Hartley (baritone) Benjamin Luxon (baritone)
Michael Rippon (bass-baritone) Bernard Richards (cello continuo) Steuart Bedford (harpsichord continuo) Michael Laird (trumpet) Iaan Wilson (trumpet)
English Opera Group Chorus, English Chamber Orchestra, leader Jose-Luis Garcia, conducted by Philip Ledger

Act 1
8.35* Talk: Michael Greenhalgh discusses aspects of the collaboration between Dryden and Purcell in King Arthur.
8.55* Proms 72: part 2 Purcell: King Arthur Act 2

(This Week's Proms: page 21)
(Stereo)