Ron Chaplin wrote:

>Lately, I've been wanting to listen to an opera by Handel, but have no
>idea which one I should start with.  I do have the oratorio Esther by
>Harry Christophers and the Sixteen which I like very much.  Any other
>suggestions?

It's veritable *mer a boire*.  I'd say if you know Messiah inside out and
want another oratorio I'd take Solomon and listen to Gardiner & and the
recent McCreesh.  As for operas it's even worse.  I suggest Gardiner's
Tamerlano and McGegan's Agrippina.  Of course there are many earlier
recordings out there well worth listening to.

Philip