Hyperion Records

The scoring is as for ‘4a’ (except originally only one solo oboe part). Walsh’s first print only included the first two movements of this work, but since it was known in its entirety by 1727 Handel probably requested that it be reprinted in full. As with Concerto No 3 the first, second and fourth movements are derived from anthems for the Duke of Chandos (HWV247 and 251b) but the Adagio (played by single strings) and final Allegro ‘alla breve’ are original. In 1923 the first movement was transcribed for orchestra by Sir Edward Elgar.

from notes by Roy Goodman © 1992