Who's behind the notes? Discover Georg Friedrich Händel: The Baroque Master
"Messiah" is an iconic oratorio composed by Georg Friedrich Handel. Here are some interesting facts about it:
Composition Circumstances: Handel composed "Messiah" in a relatively short period, completing it in just 24 days during the summer of 1741.
Dublin Premiere: The first performance of "Messiah" took place in Dublin, Ireland, on April 13, 1742. It was a charitable event, raising funds for three Dublin charities.
Hallelujah Chorus: One of the most famous parts of "Messiah" is the "Hallelujah" chorus. Legend has it that King George II was so moved by the music during the London premiere that he stood up, starting the tradition of standing during this part of the performance.
Seasonal Association: While "Messiah" is often performed during the Christmas season, the focus of the work is on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, making it appropriate for both the Christmas and Easter seasons.
Libretto by Charles Jennens: The libretto (text) for "Messiah" was compiled by Charles Jennens, a collaborator and friend of Handel. Jennens selected passages from the Bible to create a coherent narrative.
Handel's Health: It is said that Handel was in poor health during the composition of "Messiah." Legend has it that servants found him in tears after completing the "Hallelujah" chorus.
Original Instrumentation: The orchestration of "Messiah" originally included strings, oboes, bassoons, trumpets, timpani, and continuo. However, over the years, various arrangements and orchestrations have been created to suit different performance contexts.
Universal Appeal: "Messiah" is one of the most performed and beloved choral works in the Western classical repertoire. Its enduring popularity has made it a staple during the holiday season.
Part II – Passion and Resurrection: Part II of "Messiah" focuses on the Passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus, making it particularly suitable for Easter performances.
Handel's Legacy: "Messiah" contributed significantly to Handel's fame during his lifetime and has continued to be a cornerstone of his legacy. It showcases his skill in combining drama, emotion, and spirituality in music.