This recording of Handel's Messiah was made possible by donors inspired by the work of the Handel and Haydn Society, America's oldest continuously performing arts organization.
Historical Context
The Handel and Haydn Society, America's oldest continuously performing arts organization, was founded in Boston in 1815.
Interpretation
In 1972, the Handel and Haydn Society's chorus for Messiah was reduced to a chamber size of about thirty, integrating the concept of Historically Informed Performance.
Notable Performances
The Handel and Haydn Society gave the first complete performance of Handel's Messiah in America on Christmas Day in 1818.
Recording & Production
This recording of Handel's Messiah, directed by Harry Christophers, was released in October 2014 to celebrate the Handel and Haydn Society's Bicentennial.
Composition History
Handel composed and orchestrated the 259-page score of Messiah in only twenty-four days.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Handel used performances of Messiah throughout his life to bring relief to others, supporting hospitals and the Foundling Hospital in London for 'exposed and deserted young children'.
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