2.4K views · 271 reactions | Visit H+H Plays On today to enjoy H+H’s stunning performance of Handel "Messiah" just recorded Nov 27! This stream will be available for 30 days – you can watch as many times as you like before January 9th. Watch now at playson.handelandhaydn.org. | Handel and Haydn Society | Facebook

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