George Frideric Handel was a German-British Baroque composer of exponential talent, composing many operas, oratorios and concertos. Handel’s works are most famously attributed to his use of word painting, a technique used in music to have the melody mimic the literal meaning of the lyrics. Handel’s Messiah interprets the Christian view of the Messiah, or Jesus the Christ, divided into three parts, covering the prophecies concerning the birth, miracles, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, with Messiah’s end piece illustrating Jesus’ victory over death and sin. It was definitely a treat to hear the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Chorus and soloists performing the entire work. It is an extremely popular piece in Britain, with qualities that elevate the piece to enduring popularity, evoking the emotional of serenity and joy, with inspirational richness, and its wonderful word painting.
To get an early start to the Christmas spirit and mood, WeiJia, a fellow blogger, and I could not think of a better way but to hear a cheery and wonderful live performance of Handel’s Messiah by the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Calgary Philharmonic Chorus and several talented soloists. Filling the back of the stage usually occupied by the wind instruments, were filled with the grand body of the Calgary Philharmonic Chorus, blending their incredible and full sound with the wonderful music created by the string instruments of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. Trumpets occasionally made heralding appearances in Handel’s Messiah, and the superb soloists singing the arias, made for a truly magnificent and overwhelming experience.
Handel incorporated many movements within his pieces, and meant for them to flow one into another, so clapping was not encouraged between movements. Nevertheless, the seemingly effortless and graceful exits and entrances into one movement into another, made by the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Chorus and soloists, were incredible, enthralling the audience to become captivated by the continuous weaving of music into a blissful dream. I found that I my body interpreted Handel’s Messiah in an induced dream-liked trance, my eyes half lidded and my head nodding along with the grand sound and lightened atmosphere. I was elated that Handel’s Messiah allowed my body and mind to be taken away by the music, following the dips and rises that occurred. Much like an ocean wave, Handel’s Messiah was a wonderful journey through the soaring passion and hope of the Messiah.
Of course, I was delighted in hearing the most well-known movement of Handel’s piece, the “Hallelujah” chorus. There is a grand tradition that goes with this performance, as it goes that with the premiere performance of Handel’s Messiah in London and King George II was an audience member. The king had rose to his feet during the beginning of the performance, and remained standing until the chorus ended the movement. The exact reason as why the King stood at this moment is unclear, but my favourite explanation was that he was so moved by the performance, he rose in joy. Just as the whole audience rose along with King George II in London, the massive audience rose to the fantastic rendition of “Hallelujah” in the Jack Singer Concert Hall. Hearing the Calgary Philharmonic Chorus singing, “Hallelujah” live was truly an uplifting and powerful performance, as the strong and exhilarating voices that rung off the rafters of the Jack Singer Concert Hall enlightened my spirits with joy and bliss.
I similarly enjoyed the movements, especially “And He Shall Purify” sung by the Chorus, “I Know that my Redeemer liveth,” mournfully sung by Karina Gauvin, soprano, “Why do the nations so furiously rage together,” strongly sung by Micheal Dean, bass-baritone, “But who may abide the day of His coming?” sung by Daniela Mack, mezzo-soprano, and “Comfort ye my people,” sung by Benjamin Butterfield, tenor. I was delighted by the variety and the impressive dynamics of the songs sung, both soloists and Chorus were animated, engaging with the audience, and having excellent control and intonation.
Such a deeply satisfying and inspirational, I recommend for all, young and old, to come and watch an incredible performance of either the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, the Calgary Philharmonic Chorus, or both! I was delighted to see many of those attending the concert to be younger and having their spirits uplifted by Handel’s Messiah. With any piece the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra performs, you will be drawn to explore the greater depths of music, to be thrilled to discover the treasures of what live music, performed at an astounding level, has to offer.
Thanks goes to the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra for providing WeiJia and I such fabulous tickets to this most riveting and ear pleasing concert!