For generations, George Frideric Handel’s Messiah has been one of classical music's most popular holiday traditions. Experience all its grandeur at home with our free broadcast! | The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra

Join us for an unforgettable performance of Handel’s masterpiece Messiah at the Royal Festival Hall on Friday 12 December. Experience the soaring vocals and majestic orchestral accompaniment that have made this work a timeless favourite in the classical repertoire. Performed by the Orchestra of the Age on Enlightenment and Philharmonia Chorus, this concert promises to be a night of musical brilliance and festive splendour. | AEG Presents UK

One of the most famous pieces of sacred music, Handel’s Messiah debuted in 1741! A composer for the Chapel Royal in London, Handel was said to “frequently declare pleasure in setting the Scriptures to music....” But in 18th-century London, such the idea of “performing” words of the Bible was highly controversial. When Charles Jennens wrote the text for a musical performance about the life of Christ—completely taken from the Bible—he asked Handel to compose the music. In 24 days, Handel completed