One of the most famous pieces of sacred music, Handel’s Messiah debuted in 1741! A composer for the Chapel Royal in London, Handel was said to “frequently declare pleasure in setting the Scriptures to music....” But in 18th-century London, such the idea of “performing” words of the Bible was highly controversial. When Charles Jennens wrote the text for a musical performance about the life of Christ—completely taken from the Bible—he asked Handel to compose the music. In 24 days, Handel completed

Feel the power of the season with Handel’s Messiah! Experience the joy, beauty, and passion of the “Hallelujah” chorus performed live by your North Carolina Symphony and North Carolina Master Chorale.  Handel's Messiah  Dec 5-6 (Raleigh), Dec 7 (Chapel Hill)  Meymandi Concert Hall, Raleigh. Memorial Hall, Chapel Hill | North Carolina Symphony | Facebook