Listening Log - week of 11/27

Details

- Hallelujah Chorus
- From The Messiah
- by G.F. Handel

The Hallelujah Chorus is, perhaps, the world's most famous choral piece. It is part of larger work called 'Messiah,' by George Fredric Handel. 'Messiah' is an oratorio. An oratorio is like an opera, in that the sequence of songs tells a story. However, there are no costumes or set, and there are no actors. But simply the choir and symphony, performing the music. 'Messiah' tells the story of the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

When attending a live performance of 'Messiah,' the audience traditionally stands for the "Hallelujah Chorus." According to legend, when King George II attended a performance of the oratorio, he was so moved by the "Hallelujah Chorus" that he stood on his feet. And when in the presence of the king, when the king stands, EVERYONE stands.

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