Handel’s Messiah
George Frideric Handel (1685–1759), one of the greatest
composers of the Baroque era, wrote his oratorio Messiah in
1741 in just 24 days. With a libretto drawn entirely from
Scripture by Charles Jennens, the work is divided into three
parts: the prophecy and birth of Christ, the Passion and
Resurrection, and reflections on redemption and eternal life.
The Christmas section (Part I) is the portion most often
performed during the holiday season. It begins with words of
comfort and prophecy from Isaiah, moves through joyful
choruses such as “For unto us a Child is born,” and includes the
serene “Pastoral Symphony” and the angelic announcement of
Christ’s birth. The section closes with a spirit of reverent peace,
pointing toward the deeper themes to follow.
Although it originally concludes Part II, the “Hallelujah”
chorus has become inseparably linked with Christmas
celebrations. Its triumphant proclamation of Christ as “King of
Kings, and Lord of Lords,” complete with trumpets and drums,
has made it one of the most beloved and recognisable pieces in
all of Western music.
Roar Kvam, Akureyri, August 26,2025