656. How Handel Got His Mojo Back

🎙️ The Voices & The Context

• The Format: This narrative-driven podcast episode weaves host narration, on-location field recordings, and expert interviews to trace George Frideric Handel's entrepreneurial journey and the creation of Messiah, blending historical detective work with musical analysis in a reflective and revelatory tone that uncovers the human drama behind a timeless masterpiece.
• The Format: A narrative story enriched by interviews and archival explorations.
• The Key Players:
  • Stephen Dubner (Host): Freakonomics Radio host who guides the listener through Handel's life with economic curiosity, visiting sites like Chester Cathedral and the British Library.
  • Ellen Harris: Handel scholar and author who "follows the money," detailing his finances from bankruptcy to wealth via meticulous Bank of England archive research; her detective-like insights reveal Handel's business savvy.
  • Mark Reisinger: Musicologist and Handel specialist who highlights stylistic evolution from German roots to cosmopolitan flair, emphasizing vocal drama.
  • Charles King: Political scientist and author of Every Valley, providing vivid context on Handel's Italian discovery, London opera wars, and Messiah's redemptive arc.
  • Philip Rushforth: Chester Cathedral organist recounting local legends of Handel's rehearsal delays.
  • **Chris Sco