March from ’Scipio’ - HWV 20 - George Frideric Handel

In March 1726, Handel’s Opera ’Scipione’ was first performed at The King’s Theatre in Haymarket. Through three acts, it tells the story of the Roman General Scipio Africanus after the capture of Carthage. The March of Scipio is perhaps one of the better-known pieces from this opera, being used for auspicious occasions to this day. This arrangement comes from Maurizio Machella, an incredible contemporary composer and arranger, who’s produced many, *many* arrangements such as this and makes them available through a plethora of channels. A performance note: Ballarat Victoria had a spike in temperatures this week just gone, which affected the tuning of the organ’s reeds - so it does sound a bit wonky (other than the odd fat-finger). Despite this, I hope you enjoy. ___________________ Performed on the 1929 William Hill & Sons, Norman & Beard Ltd pipe organ at St Peter’s Anglican Church, Ballarat Central, Victoria. Details of the organ can be found here: