By Don Neuen, Director of the Crystal Cathedral Choir
Most every year, the Crystal Cathedral presents George Frideric Handel's beloved Messiah with choir and orchestra. The house is always full for these performances. Why?
Beyond the fact that it is an extraordinary work, its musical moods and sacred message-with every lyric taken directly from scripture-are able to touch the soul deeply and set our spirits soaring like nothing else. We are particularly blessed as we lift ourselves out of everyday life to praise God and thank him for the gift of his Son, our Messiah.
Within the piece, the "Hallelujah Chorus" is especially powerful and popular with listeners as it lifts Christ up as the King of kings and Lord of lords. As Handel was writing this portion of the work, the composer's assistant walked in to find the master musician in tears and holding up the score to this movement, saying, "I thought I saw the face of God."
This is how many feel when listening or singing along with the "Hallelujah Chorus"- a blessed opportunity to praise God mightily and be thankful, even during the tough times.
