MESSIAH
Hope and Salvation: the meaning of Handel's masterpiece
by Stephen Thornton
Handel’s Messiah is performed by thousands of choirs and choral societies across the world every year. The music is sublime, but how often do the singers or, indeed, the audience, stop to think about what it’s all about?
This approachable book, written by Stephen Thornton and published by the Royal School of Church Music, offers insight into the historical background of Christ, the Messiah, bringing to life the meaning and biblical message behind the music.
The libretto, written by Charles Jennens, is in three parts: Preparing for the coming of Jesus; The death of Jesus, and his victory; and God’s eternal purpose for us, achieved by the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. As we progress through the story, the author provides historical background behind the words to give the reader an insight into the meaning of the biblical passages. Within the book, the first few bars of music from each movement of Messiah is provided, together with the text, followed by an explanation of how the biblical passage fits into the narrative.
Ideal for choirs and choral societies who would like to know more about the text of Messiah.
£5.95, paperback
ISBN: 9780854023349
Published on 24 October 2022 by the Royal School of Church Music
