Handel’s ‘Messiah’

Celebrate the Holidays with Handel’s Messiah Performed by The Phoenix Symphony

This Monday at 7 PM, experience the timeless splendor of Handel’s Messiah with The Phoenix Symphony, airing on KNAU Arizona Public Radio, DTV 8.5 Classical Arizona PBS, and Classical 89.5 KBACH. Under the baton of Maestro Tito Muñoz and featuring the Phoenix Symphony Chorus led by Chorusmaster Thomas Bookhout, this special broadcast captures the spirit of the season with Handel’s iconic oratorio.

George Frideric Handel composed Messiah in the late summer of 1741, a time of personal and professional uncertainty. Having weathered financial struggles and declining public favor, Handel received a commission for a benefit concert in Dublin. What followed was a burst of creative energy unparalleled in his career. Working with Charles Jennens’ libretto, which drew on biblical texts to tell the story of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, Handel completed the entire oratorio in just 24 days.

The composer’s near-obsessive dedication to the project is legendary. He reportedly skipped meals and slept little, wholly consumed by his work. When he reached the triumphant Hallelujah chorus, Handel was said to have exclaimed, “I did think I did see all Heaven before me, and the great God Himself seated on His throne.”

Messiah premiered in Dublin in 1742 to great acclaim, but its initial reception in London was lukewarm. Over time, however, its popularity grew, particularly after a celebrated performance to benefit the Foundling Hospital in 1750. Handel’s charitable presentations of the work became a hallmark of its legacy, linking Messiah with the ideals of hope and giving.

Today, Messiah is one of the most performed works in the classical repertoire. Its universal themes of redemption and triumph transcend cultural boundaries, making it a beloved tradition around the world, especially during the holiday season. Its ability to inspire, console, and uplift has ensured its place in the hearts of millions, from concert halls to living rooms.

The Hallelujah Chorus stands as a cultural icon, instantly recognizable for its triumphant majesty. Tradition holds that King George II was so moved at its London premiere that he rose to his feet, sparking the now-customary standing ovation.

In the early 2010s, the Hallelujah Chorus found new life in the flash mob craze, where singers surprised and delighted audiences in shopping malls, train stations, and public spaces. These spontaneous performances, viewed millions of times online, highlight the enduring appeal of Handel’s music and its ability to bring people together in moments of shared joy and awe. One of the first such pop-up performances was organized by our radio host, Mike Bolton.

Meet the Soloists

This performance features a distinguished cast of soloists:

Tiffany Choe, soprano: Tiffany Choe has earned acclaim for her radiant voice and dynamic stage presence. This season, she portrayed Marzelline in Fidelio with Washington National Opera, following her success as Juliet in Romeo and Juliet. A frequent performer with Arizona Opera, she has received Encouragement Awards from the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition and appeared in leading roles across the United States.

Lauren Cook, mezzo-soprano: Known for her warm, expressive voice, Lauren Cook is a champion of both traditional and contemporary opera. She has performed beloved roles such as Cherubino in The Marriage of Figaro and created new works by composers like Missy Mazzoli. Her recent appearances with Opera Philadelphia and Virginia Opera have solidified her reputation as a versatile and compelling performer.

Brad Bickhardt, tenor: A rising star in opera and musical theater, Brad Bickhardt brings a unique blend of artistry and charisma to every role. A graduate of Indiana University, Brad has performed with Arizona Opera, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, and The Glimmerglass Festival. His roles range from Tybalt in Roméo et Juliette to leading tenor parts in oratorio and concert works.

Schyler Vargas, baritone: Praised for his rich, resonant voice and versatility, baritone Schyler Vargas made his Carnegie Hall debut in 2023 and continues to shine on major stages with companies like Arizona Opera, The Atlanta Opera, and Opera Theatre of St. Louis. Schyler has also won numerous accolades, including first place in the Tri-Cities Opera Vocal Competition.

Don’t miss this extraordinary performance of Handel’s Messiah, an essential part of the holiday season. Tune in on Monday at 7 PM to KNAU Arizona Public Radio, DTV 8.5 Classical Arizona PBS, or Classical 89.5 KBACH. Let the beauty of Handel’s music fill your home with joy and wonder this holiday season.