From Dublin to the theatres of London, Handel’s Messiah had captivated and intrigued audiences by its near-operatic qualities. But when Handel inaugurated annual benefit performances in London’s Foundling Hospital “for the Maintenance and Education of Exposed and Deserted Young Children,” the world’s favorite oratorio took hold in its permanent place in the hearts of audiences, then in London and now throughout the world. Jeffrey Thomas leads America’s “best specialists in early music” including a splendid vocal quartet of Handel soloists in performances that have been treasured by Northern California audiences for more than a decade.
“I doubt the Messiah choruses have been sung with greater attention to detail anywhere.” (San Francisco Classical Voice)
“For those who treasure Messiah, Thomas’ version is revelatory.” (Bay Area Reporter)
- Venue: Grace Cathedral
- Date: Thu December 17, 2009 7:30pm
- City: San Francisco
- Price Range: $10-$60
- Tickets: 415-621-7900
Fri December 18, 2009 7:30pm
Grace Cathedral
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Program
Performers
Jeffrey Thomas
Conductor
More About This Event
SFCV Previews
November 24, 2009
Although George Frideric Handel was a German-born composer who spent much of his career in England, holiday performances of his oratorio Messiah have become as American as apple pie. Look around the Bay Area, and you’ll doubtless find an eclectic array of sing-alongs, play-alongs, or just listen-alongs of this most-hallowed choral masterpiece. For sheer quality, however, it’s hard to beat the American Bach Soloists’ annual performances. More »
