It's six months and one week until Christmas, so that should give me time...
I'm looking for a new vinyl set of "Messiah." I have maybe four or five versions in various conditions, but I'd like a new-to-me mint condition set.
1) I'm not a purist when it comes to things like original instruments, countertenors, and ensemble size. My personal approach - and I agree that everybody's opinion counts - is that when Handel wants passion (from exultation through mourning), all options are on the table as "Messiah's" appeal is timeless and should be unfettered by the limitations of an era. In other words, if a tiny, spare production delivers the goods, great; but if a thousand voices rings the bell, I'm happy with that, too.
2) I'm aware that there is tremendous variation in the quality of different issues of the same performance, so I'm looking for specific pressing recommendations.
Thanks in advance for your advice...I appreciate the expertise and commitment of this community!