FYI, Peter Schreier was/is a professional tenor (and a good one), long before becoming a conductor. It shows in that he cares more about the quality of the singing, which I feel matters in a piece like this. Many conductors focus on the orchestra, and leave the singers and chorus to basically fend for themselves. I've experienced this first hand... This also explains Robert Shaw's success (ie, singers come first).
Gardiner is also very good. It comes down to what style you like... I've also always liked how Colin Davis handles choruses and singers.
Gardiner is also very good. It comes down to what style you like... I've also always liked how Colin Davis handles choruses and singers.