This paper is the first Russian translation of one of the most important documents concerning the English musical life of the 18th century: An Account of Musical Performances in Westminster Abbey, and the Pantheon, May 26th, 27th, 29th, and June the 3rd and 5th, 1784, in Commemoration of Handel by Charles Burney (1726–1814), an outstanding English musician and music historian. This document demonstrates how Handel’s music was perceived 25 years after his death and what were the new tendencies in its performance that developed further in the 19th and 20th centuries. Moreover, Burney’s Account contains abundant valuable information concerning the state of the English music in the second half of the 18th century and the leading musicians of that period. Of special interest are Burney’s historical insights and his reflections on the specific features on Handel’s music. In addition to undeniable scientific value, this is a text of considerable literary merit, which makes its reading a real pleasure. The publication is supplied with an introduction (“...[This] enterprise would form an era in music”) and relevant scientific commentaries.
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