Notes on the Program

Messiah is without doubt the best known and most often performed of George Frederic Handel’s numerous compositions. It has become a Christmas tradition in many countries, but in Handel’s day it was usually sung at Easter. Composed in 1741 in only 24 days, the work was originally performed by a choir of just 20 men and boys, with an orchestra of 30 to 35 players. The text was selected by Charles Jennens from the King James Bible and the Book of Common Prayer.

The work aroused controversy at first because some thought it irreverent to sing religious text in the concert hall. King George II, however, was so impressed at the London premiere that he stood up during the “Hallelujah Chorus.” The rest of the audience was obliged to stand in deference to the king, thus originating the custom that is still followed to this day.

As many times as Messiah is performed, Handel’s music retains its strengths: a keen sensitivity to the text, an affinity for the natural gifts of each voice, and a satisfying balance among solo, choral and orchestral sections. The expressive beauty of the music, however, is not the only reason for Messiah’s enduring popularity. Like all great art, the work can be appreciated on many levels. Taken literally, it is a dramatic and touching portrayal of the life of Christ. We feel the thrill of suspense as if we did not know the outcome until the end of the story. In a larger sense, as conceived by Maestro Shapiro, it is a journey of the soul, from joyous awakening through anguished suffering to ultimate victory. Only by enduring pain and rejection can we fully experience the glory of redemption. It is this universality that makes performers and listeners of all faiths respond time and again to the message of Messiah.

--Susan Metz

© 1998, 2007 The Monmouth Civic Chorus