The phenomenon of performing baroque works on so-called original instruments grew steadily after World War II, but the results were often imbalanced and out-of-tune affairs-higher in academic interest than true inspirational spirit. The movement reached new heights with the first generation of musicians to come to maturity after the war, and Trevor Pinnock's English Concert set a new gold standard for both technique and musicianship. These historically informed performances make Handel's most familiar works sparkle as if they were brand new, bringing the opulent summer boating party of England's George I to life again in all its sonic glory.