Join the Experience!

November 26, 2023 • 3 PM

Conducted by William W. Snelling
With Soloists
Katherine Crusi, Soprano
Maria Damore, Mezzo-Soprano
John Coakley, Tenor
Milo Morris, Bass-Baritone
Accompanied by the
Berks Chamber Orchestra

Please bring your own score
Separate seating for non-singers
Handicapped accessible
Donations accepted
Professionally-staffed childcare will be offered during the program!

Here are some facts about one of the most world popular oratorio of all times:

Handel composed Messiah in a remarkably short time. He began August 22, 1741, and completed the work in 24 days. Deeply inspired, Handel claimed to have seen a vision of heaven and wrote the Hallelujah Chorus in a burst of creative fervor. The libretto for Messiah was compiled by Charles Jennens, a wealthy landowner and devout Christian. He selected verses from the Bible emphasizing the life, death, and resurrection of Christ.

Messiah was first performed in Dublin, Ireland, on April 13,1742, with huge success. It quickly gained international popularity and is now performed worldwide, especially at Christmas time. While Messiah is often associated with Christmas, originally Handel composed it for Lent and Easter. But, the oratorio has been performed in various ways over the years. Handel himself made changes to the piece for different performances, and modern renditions can vary in terms of orchestration and soloists. Although it’s often performed with large choirs, Handel composed it for a relatively small ensemble before adapting it later for larger groups.

The Hallelujah Chorus is one of the most famous parts of Messiah, and it’s customary for the audience to stand during this section. This tradition is said to have started with King George II’s spontaneous standing during the performance.

To support this wonderful event – please consider a donation, specifying that it goes toward the Sing Messiah fund.