Handel's great masterpiece narrates the story of Christ from nativity to resurrection and the triumph of life over death. Handel's Messiah lies at the very heart of Christmas musical festivities. The oratorio follows Christ's life from the prophecies of the Old Testament through to his birth, passion and resurrection, and the final conquest of sin with the promise of eternal life. Handel uses his consummate skill as an opera composer to inject vivid colour and intense drama into his score. First heard in 1741, it remains just as popular today as it did in Dublin nearly 300 years ago. Arias of mesmerising beauty and triumphant courage sit alongside virtuoso choruses of stunning power - including the famous 'Hallelujah Chorus'.
This concert brings together the Choir of The Queen's College, Oxford with the Academy of Ancient Music for the first time, a combination of the finest choral singing and an orchestra with a worldwide reputation for excellence in baroque and classical music.
Choir and orchestra are conducted by Owen Rees, Director of Music at The Queen's College, hailed as 'one of the most energetic and persuasive voices’ in this field.
Rowan Pierce soprano
Esther Brazil mezzo-soprano
Peter Harris tenor
Ashley Riches bass
Choir of The Queen's College, Oxford
Academy of Ancient Music
Owen Rees director
Rowan Pierce (photo: Gerard Collett)
Ashley Riches
The Choir of The Queen's College, Oxford
The Academy of Ancient Music
Owen Rees
Handel's Messiah
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Date
Location
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
Featuring
Choir of The Queen's College, Oxford with the Academy of Ancient Music