Saul, HWV 53, is a Dramatic Oratorio composed by G.F. Haendel in 1738, with a libretto by Charles Jennens, taken from the First book of Samuel (around 600 BCE); It was first performed at the King's Theatre in London on 16 January 1739, and the premiere was a success. the part of David was originally written for a Countertenor (Mr Russel), with probably had a "light" Voice, then at some point, the part was given to the Mezzo-Soprano Maria Antonia Marchesini (La Lucchesina), who also sang the part of the Witch of Endor. Note that some David's Arias can be sung by a Tenor or a Soprano (but not the whole part).
