Handel’s Messiah and Carols

Handel’s Messiah: An Anthem During the Advent Season

We are honored to partner with the Danbury Music Centre to present a 70-minute concert featuring some of the most popular sections of Handel’s Messiah and Christmas carols performed by the 50-person Danbury Concert Choir and Symphony Chamber Orchestra.

Tickets

Proceeds to help feed the hungry: In the spirit of Christmas and following Handel’s example (who gave large amounts of money to hospitals, orphanages and prisoners), all proceeds of the Handel’s Messiah and Carols concert will go to the Walnut Hill Food Pantry. Additionally, please consider bringing can goods and non-perishables which will be given to other local pantries in the Danbury area.

Online: $18
At the door: $20

Get your tickets HERE.

What is the Messiah and how did the tradition of it being performed during the holiday season begin?

Handel’s Messiah premiered in Dublin, Ireland on April 13, 1742. With record-breaking attendance, the audience was immediately captivated by the composition. While it took a few years for it to gain wide popularity, by 1750 it returned Handel as a preeminent composer.

Amazingly, the piece itself was written quickly over a period of 3-4 weeks between August and September of 1741 as Handel wrote from morning to evening. The first portion of the Messiah prophecies the birth of Jesus, the second part focuses on His sacrifice for the world and the final section on His resurrection. At the end of the composition, Handel wrote the letters SDG for “Soli Deo Gloria,” which translates as “To God alone the glory.” It is believed that Handel attributed the writing of the Messiah to help from divine inspiration.

Since Handel’s death in 1759, the piece has gained popularity around the world. While initially composed for Easter, in 1818, it was performed on Christmas Day in Boston which began a tradition that has spread across the United States and into Europe. Today, the piece is one the most performed classical works in history and is regularly performed by major orchestras as well as local ensembles.