Handel’s 1741 oratorio Messiah is one of the best-loved works of the choral repertoire.

First performed during Eastertide in 1742, and written over a period of just 24 days, it explores the coming of the Messiah, Christ’s Passion, Resurrection and Ascension into heaven.

At the end of his manuscript Handel wrote the letters “SDG” (Soli Deo Gloria) meaning “To God alone the glory”. This inscription, together with the speed of the composition, has encouraged belief that Handel wrote the music in a fervour of divine inspiration.

Ealing Choral Society and the Van Swieten Band are delighted to return to the Cadogan Hall for a performance of this jubilant work.