Handel's Messiah was composed in only 24 days in 1741 for a performance in Dublin.
Performer Biography
The Scholars Baroque Ensemble was founded in 1987 by David van Asch to complement the a cappella work of the vocal quartet The Scholars.
Critical Reception
Handel's Messiah initially failed to please in London due to reservations about performing a sacred subject in a theatre, only achieving lasting success after 1750 performances for the Foundling Hospital.
Interpretation
The Scholars Baroque Ensemble's version of Messiah attempts to be faithful to Handel's original intentions, including using original instruments or copies and contemporary techniques.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Handel, the composer, intended Messiah to be performed with a small string ensemble, trumpets, and timpani, and with soloists also singing in the chorus, reflecting an unusual wish for economy.
Compositional Technique
Handel's Messiah includes a larger number of choruses than any of his other oratorios, contributing to its purely sacred character.
Notable Performances
The first performance of Handel's Messiah took place on April 13, 1742, at the New Music Hall in Fish-amble Street, Dublin, in aid of charity.
