"Messiah" was presented often during Handel's lifetime, and the composer made changes to suit the occasions and singers available. In 1750, it was presented with the castrato Guadagni in place of a female alto soloist, and given Guadagni's virtuosity (he was Gluck's first Orfeo), Handel embellished the vocal line--the effect is stunning. René Jacobs leads a superb reading of this version of the score--a very secular reading--with swift tempi, lightness of attack, interesting swelling, and diminishing of choral notes to great effect and an overall excellent cast. Countertenor Lawrence Zazzo takes the Guadagni part and fills it with grand style; Kerstin Avemo is the fine soprano soloist and bass Neal Davies sings up a storm. The men and women of the Choir of Clare College are in top form and the 28 players of the Feiburger Barockorchester play with accuracy, verve, and handsome tone. Yes, there are dozens of recordings of this work available, but this one is worthy to stand beside the best. --Robert Levine