For its harmonia mundi début, the London-based La Nuova Musica, led by David Bates, presents a true rarity: the original 1712 version of Handel's opera 'Il pastor fido' (The Faithful Shepherd).

'Il pastor fido' was first performed at the Queen's Theatre on 22 November 1712, but achieved only seven performances throughout the season. One unimpressed eyewitness complained in his diary 'The Scene represented only ye Country of Arcadia. ye Habits were old – ye Opera Short.' Handel's distinctive original version of his Arcadian opera was not heard again until its first modern revival at Abingdon in 1971. More than 40 years on, this performance by La Nuova Musica is its first recording.

La Nuova Musica is a vocal and instrumental ensemble dedicated to the music of the European Renaissance and Baroque. In less than five years since its foundation by counter-tenor David Bates, it has shot to prominence in the UK and abroad, establishing itself amongst critics and audiences as both a fixture and a breath of fresh air. Across a steadily developing repertoire, La Nuova Musica performances are characterised by vividness and ardour.