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MESSIAH

In a world immersed in visual and interactive media, music and the performing arts have never before been more relevant in the communication of the Gospel. As such, the oratorio MESSIAH, by George Friderick Handel, is one of the great works of western civilization in conveying the birth, passion, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Set to music by Divine inspiration, its universal appeal has marked it as the most performed work worldwide, according to musicologists. I am reminded of A.W. Tozer's belief that: "Every true work of art praises God apart from the composer's intentions, because it could not have been written without the gifts which God gave His creation".

Handel was born in Halle, Germany in 1685, and knew from an early age that he wanted to spend his life surrounded by music. Trained in Germany, he was a skilled performer on the harpsichord and organ, mastered every genre in Italy, and settled in England for five decades, gaining the unanimous respect of his musical colleagues and the public. His operas, oratorios and church music became legendary, until a financial loss in 1737 brought on an attack of paralysis and depression. Being a failure in business, he eventually faced bankruptcy. A time of refraining from all attempts at pursuing his creative genius took place, until, that is, a literary friend presented him with a manuscript in which the words were taken from the Scriptures. It fired his imagination. As if inspired by Heaven itself, he indulged in a feverish attempt at setting the Scriptures to music - MESSIAH. While Handel may not have been regarded a deeply religious man like Johann Sebastian Bach, he became a God-intoxicated man, and when he completed the "Amen" chorus, he said: "I did think I did see all Heaven before me, and the great God Himself." Written in 24 short days, Handel hardly ate or slept and entertained no visitors. He was found composing with his tears mingling in the ink much of the time as he put to paper an awesome phrase or devout passage. On April 13, 1742, the premiere performance took place in Dublin, with Handel as conductor. Audiences were struck by the drama and compassionate character of this magnificent work of art with its impressive choruses and glorious solos. This was the perfect musical setting within which salvation history could be taught, and through which an appreciation for the love that God has shown His people could be embedded in the hearts of believers everywhere.

An oratorio is a musical setting for a religious text. In composing MESSIAH, Handel availed himself of some of the most inspiring texts in Scripture. The oratorio is divided into three parts. Part I depicts the expectation of the Hebrew people for the promised Messiah who would set things right among the nations and save His people, Israel. It then moves to announce the wondrous news of the birth of Christ, Savior of the world. Part II includes texts from Scripture concerning the passion and death of our Lord. Part III magnificently portrays the hope, which all Christians share for everlasting life in the presence of God.

For many, this music has never failed to be wondrous, its words prophetic, and its message filled with hope - hope for the sinner, hope for the saint, hope for the weary world longing for new life. And who can promise this? Who can be called "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace". Only the Messiah Himself. I have always known the arts to be a powerful catalyst for unity, reconciliation, and hope in the Church, and in a redeemed presentation, it is a viable instrument in changing the spiritual climate of a region, indeed, a nation!

Christian Arts Choir, volunteers from many different area churches, has for the past 8 years exhibited a rare spirit of cooperation. Singing in 30 free concerts in various venues throughout the Northeast Region, the choir was invited by Governor and Mrs. George Pataki to give two performances at their Executive Mansion in 2001, and at their annual Prayer Breakfast in the Empire State Convention Center in 2003. We extend a warm welcome to anyone interested in joining the choir by contacting us. Not only will you see the rewards of your work rising to the challenges involved with such competence, but bond with others in lifelong friendships. Come and experience with us, then, this special moment of musical and spiritual inspiration. Let us celebrate, together, the Reason for ALL Seasons!