Handel’s ‘Messiah’

I have seen Handel’s ‘Messiah’ performed a number of times over the years; each performance is a unique experience. I have seen ‘Messiah’ performed at Lincoln Center by a full modern symphony orchestra and a massive choir that probably numbered a hundred singers. 

I remember seeing a recorded version in a movie theater once, which I have to say was not a great idea. Handel’s ‘Messiah’ needs to be seen live to be appreciated. Watching a recorded version is like looking at someone’s pictures of Paris. No matter how good the pictures are, it’s not nearly as amazing as being there.

Last evening, I attended the most enjoyable performance of ‘Messiah’ that I have ever seen. It was a modest production in a church with wonderful acoustics. The orchestra was smaller and more authentic for the size of orchestras used in Handel’s lifetime. The musicians were wonderful; their playing was inspired and flawless from the first note to the last. 

The choir was modestly sized, as well, but they were absolutely on fire. They sang each piece with passion and impeccable precision. Even the most complicated contrapuntal passages were executed perfectly.

The vocal soloists sang their hearts out, and the audience could feel it. The connection between the solo voice, the solemn lyrics, and every listener in the room was palpable. There were a number of moments where the singing was so moving and so beautiful, I could not stop smiling.

Finally, I would like to offer a special word of praise to the two amazing trumpet players. 

They played like angels, with soaring tones that blended perfectly with the vocalists and the rest of the instruments. The trumpet lines were the perfect highlight on top of a brilliant performance of timeless music. 

Handel’s ‘Messiah’ is a fairly long program of music. It can take some stamina to sit through the entire production. I will confess to having nodded off at times at previous performances. But last evening’s performance captivated me from beginning to end and made me appreciate even more fully how wonderful Handel’s great classic truly is. 

If you have a chance, look for a performance of ‘Messiah’ in your area. The musicians and singers would appreciate your support as they bring this amazing, challenging music to life for your enjoyment. If you don’t warm up to all of it, that’s okay. There’s a lot of material here, and it can be overwhelming for first time listeners. Keep an open mind and enjoy the moments, the sounds, and the voices that appeal to you. Let those special passages pull you in and touch your heart. You may walk away a new appreciation for great music.