George Frideric Handel: Messiah

In 1784 Handel's visionary, ecstatic Messiah was revived in a huge performance at Westminster Abbey, an event that ensured its still iconic status.

Today, we often take it for granted that musicians perform classical music from all ages - from Monteverdi right up to the present day, but that wasn't always the case. In the past, music was much more disposable (dare we say it, a little like some of today's pop music). Things were performed, became briefly popular and then disappeared. However, London became one of the first places to look back at the history of music, when Handel's glorious Messiah was revived in 1784, ensuring the work it's legendary, iconic status.

Royal Festival Hall at 5.45pm - OAE Extras. A short performance by young musicians from the Ann & Peter Law OAE Experience scheme. Free.

Performers

Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment
Robert Howarth director
Julia Doyle soprano
Timothy Mead countertenor
John Mark Ainsley tenor
Matthew Brook bass
Choir of the Enlightenment

Watch & Listen