HANDEL

Serse

Carolyn Watkinson, Barbara Hendricks; La Grande Ecurie et la Chambre du Roy/ Jean-claude Malgoire Sony 88985397842 (1979) 180:52 mins (3 discs) A pioneer of early music, director Jeanclaude Malgoire knew in 1979 what he wanted from his band, but not from his lead sopranos. They apply vocal heft where the music begs for a light touch.