The story focuses on the emotional downward spiral of the first king of Israel's relationship with his eventual successor, David.

Copyright © 2025 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.

Watching Saul genuinely made me want to jump for joy ... I didn’t know the music very well, but I love Handel and had worked on four of his works, including Giulio Cesare at Glyndebourne.

Saul, HWV 53 / Act 1: 2. Air: An Infant rais'd by thy Command - 3. Trio: Along the Monster Atheist strode Saul, HWV 53 / Act 1: 4. Chorus: The Youth inspir'd by Thee, O Lord Saul, HWV 53 / Act 1: 5.