We have a collection of 25 arrangements for Georg Friedrich Händel - "And He Shall Purify" (Messiah, HWV 56)
What famous oratorio features the electrifying chorus "And He Shall Purify"? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Georg Friedrich Händel: The Baroque Master
"Messiah," composed by Georg Friedrich Handel (sometimes spelled as Händel), is one of the most famous and enduring works in the Western classical music repertoire. Here are some interesting facts about Handel's "Messiah":
Composed in Just 24 Days: Handel composed "Messiah" remarkably quickly. He started writing the music on August 22, 1741, and completed it on September 14, 1741, taking only 24 days to finish this masterpiece.
Premiered in Dublin: "Messiah" had its world premiere in Dublin, Ireland, on April 13, 1742, at the New Music Hall. The performance was a charitable event, raising funds for several Dublin charities.
King George II's Reaction: Legend has it that during the London premiere of "Messiah," King George II was so moved by the "Hallelujah" chorus that he stood up. This tradition of standing during the "Hallelujah" chorus continues in many performances to this day.
Scriptural Text: The libretto for "Messiah" was compiled by Charles Jennens, a friend of Handel's. It consists entirely of biblical texts, primarily from the Old Testament and the Book of Revelation.
Originally an Easter Composition: While "Messiah" is now closely associated with Christmas, Handel composed it for the Easter season. It covers the entire story of Jesus, from the prophecies of his coming to his resurrection.
Handel's Financial Struggles: Despite the immense popularity of "Messiah" today, Handel struggled financially during his lifetime. After a series of failures with operas, "Messiah" marked a turning point in his career, though it didn't immediately bring him financial success.
Variety of Performance Traditions: "Messiah" has been performed in various ways over the years. Some performances are faithful to Handel's original intentions, while others have used larger orchestras and choirs, often for dramatic effect.
Global Popularity: "Messiah" is performed by choirs and orchestras worldwide, especially during the Christmas season. It has been translated into numerous languages and has become a beloved holiday tradition in many countries.
A Unique Blend of Styles: Handel's "Messiah" combines elements of opera, oratorio, and choral music. Its dramatic arias and choruses are balanced by reflective and meditative moments.
Long-Lasting Legacy: Handel's "Messiah" has left a lasting impact on the world of music. It continues to inspire musicians and audiences alike and remains one of the most frequently performed and recorded works in the classical repertoire.
"Messiah" is a remarkable composition that has touched the hearts of countless people over the centuries, making it one of the most enduring and beloved pieces of classical music ever written.