Overview

WINNER OF THE MIDEM CLASSICAL AWARD 2009 FOR CHORAL WORKS

Arguably the most famous oratorio ever written and certainly Handel’s best known work, Messiah needs little introduction. Composed in a staggering twenty-four days, Messiah was first performed in Dublin in 1742 where it received a rapturous welcome. Not so the following year when it premiered in London to a distinctly hostile reception. It wasn’t until Messiah began to be presented in charity performances at the Foundling Hospital in London that the public started to embrace the work we now regard as Handel’s greatest composition. On this disc The Sixteen and Harry Christophers are joined by four soloists all revered Handelians who have had a long association with The Sixteen.