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The Best Messiah in Town
Highlights from G. F. Handel’s Magnificent Opus
Led by Music Director Andreea Fagen and the RPC Choir
With Guest Soloists and a String Quartet
Third Sunday of Advent, December 15, 2024 @ 9:45 AM
Rev. E. Nicholas Van Gombos
Some introductory thoughts: The year was 1741 and a British court composer under the patronage of King George II was on the clock. George Frederich Handel, not taking the post for granted, worked feverishly on the score for a 3-part oratorio to be called “Messiah” – a lyrical unfolding of what we know in biblical study as ‘salvation history.’ He must have sensed his own salvation on the line for reportedly penned the whole work in 24 days – the first section in a mere 6.
A little perspective. I recently came upon an article entitled, “Why Handel never went baroque’ – the point being that actually he did go ‘baroque’ in musical style. But the frantic effort – at a financially tender time – paid off, because after this his career was set and the family secure. So he didn’t ‘go broke’ after all.
And neither will we – ennobled by both the message and the music the master sends us down the years.
It is performed in any and all times – but peak season – is Advent and Christmas. And in this week it will be our joy to revel in highlights.
You will want to be here!
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Hymns:
Hymn 93 “Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates” Vs. 1, 6 & 7 (TRURO)
Hymn 119 “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” (MENDELSSOHN)
Hymn 134 “Joy to the World” Vs. 1, 2 & 4 (ANTIOCH)