Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

"When I think upon my God, my heart is so full of joy that notes dance and leap from my pen," said Franz Joseph Haydn many years ago. Of the many 'Creations' we have reviewed this version has captured this sometimes elusive joy better than any. Credit must go to conductor John Nelson for bringing the music alive and his comments in the accompanying bonus feature explain his reasons. Of course even the best conductor can do little if his musicians fail him so we are pleased to report that the Dutch choir and orchestra are both in fine fettle and all five soloists give their all. The light and bright music is matched by the setting of Grote Kerk, one of the oldest churches in the Netherlands. Our director, Rhodri Huw, works the angles well so that our visual interest is maintained throughout but above all we want to hear the music and this performance gives us everything we need. Sub-titles are provided and the forty minutes of bonus material added to the concert give us a generous three hours. This release is part of the Soli Deo Gloria Collection, intended to "enhance, promote and preserve sacred classical music at the highest level". With this release they have succeeded.