Music Worcester presents The Worcester Chorus: Handel Messiah

Directed by Chris Shepard, The Worcester Chorus is one of America’s oldest and longest-running choral ensembles. Attending their annual performance of Handel’s Messiah at the historic Mechanics Hall on the first weekend of December each year is a holiday tradition for many families and choral music fans in the Greater Worcester community and beyond. Audiences love to experience this celebratory work year after year, but why did it become such a beloved tradition in the first place?

Handel was a star of his time, and wrote music that stands the test of time because of melodic material as well as the stories conveyed. Messiah is the story of Jesus Christ, set in three parts (“acts”) that alternate between recitatives, arias, and choruses. What was originally written for Easter has now become a Christmas tradition, as the work tells the story of Christ from birth through death and glory. Ensembles across the world gather to perform this work year after year, whether it’s in full or simply performing the Hallelujah Chorus. This work, while approaching 300 years old, stands the test of time; join us for an exuberant celebration this holiday season.