George Fredrick Handel is a favorite composer around Christmas and Easter every year, in part because one of his most famous oratorio "The Messiah" and from that the "Hallelujah Chorus" which is often used during the church calendar. It is a celebratory piece of music that came out of the baroque era that has stood the test of time. The Hallelujah Chorus is performed in churches, concert halls, malls, and public forums and is one of the most recognizable pieces of music literature in the world. Handel was born on February 23, 1685 in Halle, Germany. He yearned to study music; however, his father was not supportive of this idea, fearing he would never make a good living as a musician. Handel as a young boy did have the support of his…show more content… London was constantly evolving with the development of colonies in the new world, and it had a growing dominance in the world. The Hallelujah Chorus Nelson 2 was the perfect piece to reflect the attitude in London at this time. The lyrics start off with a resounding hallelujah which sets the tone of the piece. Then it gives reverence to God, saying " For the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth" and "The kingdom of this world is become the kingdom of our Lord, and of His Christ, and of His Christ, and He shall reign for ever and ever." It speaks of Christ being the "King of Kings and Lord of lords and he shall reign forever and ever", and ends with a "hallelujah" that fills every space. Its form is ABCBA, and its texture is homorhythmic, meaning all voices together. Its medium is represented by full orchestra and SATB voices. Handel's Messiah and more importantly his Hallelujah Chorus has been a part of the developed world since being written, and has not diminished. Its strong Biblical references, exceptional accompaniment, varied dynamics and drive has kept this piece alive and well throughout history. The music world lost two great composers within 10 years of the Messiah premiere, Vivaldi (1741) and Bach (1750), all the while Great Britain was expanding in the Americas. The political climate was one of strength as Britain held its position as a world
