     Messiah is the most famous of all the many operas and oratorios Handel composed.  Compare the vocal style in the recitative and aria to that heard in the Monteverdi selections.   The florid lines of Handel are more relaxed than the extended bel canto techniques in late Italian opera; nevertheless, the singers must be well trained.  This recitative has a lightly scored orchestral accompaniment.  When there is only a harpsichord used for accompaniment, it is called a dry recitative. 