Today, almost 275 years since its premier performance, Handel’s beloved Messiah oratorio has become a favorite of both Christmas and Easter celebrations everywhere. Many will be surprised to learn that Messiah was not originally intended to be performed primarily as Christmas music. The first performance of Messiah took place in April, 1742 in Dublin and Easter-time performances continued during the decades that followed. Over the years, as the appreciation for Messiah spread, the number of Christmas season performances increased.

Here are some ways to make Messiah part of your Christmas:

Listen to the Choir’s newest Messiah recordings. This new Mack Wilberg edition of the oratorio retains the aesthetics and sound of Handel’s original masterpiece for performance by a large chorus and orchestra. Two versions are available: the Complete Oratorio, on two CDs with a bonus DVD, and the Highlights,  with selected choruses and solos.

Watch and listen to Messiah excerpts from the Hallelujah! CD and DVD. During the 2015 Christmas concert, British actor, Martin Jarvis, and Metropolitan Opera soloists Erin Morley, Tamara Mumford, Ben Bliss, and Tyler Simpson recounted through dramatic and musical narrative the story of Handel’s composition and Messiah’s early performances. The performances are now available on CD and DVD. Use coupon code HALLELUJAH20 at checkout to receive the discount (on-line or in store). Offer expires November 25.

Participate in a Messiah sing or concert. There are many opportunities during the Christmas season to participate in school, community, or church Messiah performances and sing-ins.  Some Choir fans have even had a Messiah sing in the privacy of their own home by singing with the new recording of Messiah by the Choir and Orchestra!  

Here are some resources on MormonTabernacleChoir.org to help you prepare for your Messiah experience:

• Learn how to sing the “Hallelujah" Chorus: Watch the Choir’s video to learn the soprano, alto, tenor or bass vocal parts of the “Hallelujah” chorus with music and orchestral accompaniment, and Mack Wilberg conducting. You don’t have to be a solo-quality singer—just one who enjoys the exhilarating experience of singing this inspiring music.
• Enjoy a sample public domain score of Messiah in .pdf format that can be printed or downloaded so you can become familiar with the entire oratorio. Participants typically arrive at a Messiah sing-in with their own score. (Please be aware that public domain/copyright laws vary from country to country so this work may not be free of known copyright restrictions in all jurisdictions.)
• Read George Frideric Handel: A Brief History of the Man and the Early Days of Messiah to learn more about this talented composer.
• Additional resource materials can be found on the Choir’s Messiah pages that will add to your enjoyment and understanding of Messiah. Learn about the history and importance of Messiah from its earliest days to the present time.

Enjoy making Messiah and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square part of your Christmas!