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"Judas Maccabaeus" is an oratorio composed by George Frideric Handel. Here are some interesting facts about this work:

1. Composition and Premiere:

   • Handel composed "Judas Maccabaeus" in 1746 as an oratorio in three acts.
   • It premiered on April 1, 1747, at Covent Garden in London during the Lenten oratorio season.

2. Libretto:

   • The libretto for "Judas Maccabaeus" was written by Thomas Morell, who collaborated with Handel on several oratorios.
   • The text is based on the biblical account found in the First and Second Books of Maccabees.

3. Biblical Inspiration:

   • The oratorio tells the story of the Jewish hero Judas Maccabaeus and his victory over the Seleucid monarch Antiochus IV Epiphanes. It celebrates the Maccabean Revolt and the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.

4. Famous Choruses:

   • "See, the Conqu'ring Hero Comes!" is one of the most well-known choruses from "Judas Maccabaeus." It is often performed separately and has become a popular anthem for festive occasions.

5. Musical Highlights:

   • The oratorio is known for its expressive arias, dramatic choruses, and majestic orchestration.
   • The work features a variety of musical forms, including recitatives, arias, and choruses, showcasing Handel's mastery of choral composition.

6. Popular Aria - "Arm, Arm, Ye Brave!":

   • One of the standout arias is "Arm, Arm, Ye Brave!" sung by the character Simon. This piece is a powerful call to arms and is celebrated for its stirring melody and martial character.

7. Celebratory Tone:

   • "Judas Maccabaeus" is notable for its triumphant and celebratory tone, reflecting the victory of the Maccabees and the subsequent liberation of the Jewish people.

8. Enduring Legacy:

   • Despite being composed for a specific occasion, "Judas Maccabaeus" has endured through the centuries and is still regularly performed today.
   • Some of its choruses, arias, and instrumental pieces have become standalone concert pieces and are appreciated outside the context of the full oratorio.

9. Influence on Later Composers:

   • Handel's oratorios, including "Judas Maccabaeus," had a significant influence on later composers, including Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven, in the development of their choral and symphonic works.

"Judas Maccabaeus" remains a compelling and historically significant work in Handel's extensive repertoire of oratorios.