Handel's Messiah

Handel's Messiah from BYUtv in 2014 is filled with over two hours of uplifting, inspirational music that makes it an absolute delight to watch and listen to. The Brigham Young University Combined Choirs and Orchestra adeptly bring to life one of the world's most renowned religious oratorios composed by George Frideric Handel, Messiah.

The performance is a vibrant and beautifully orchestrated rendition of Handel's full-length Messiah, with a seamless fusion of divine music and resonating scriptural text. The seamless integration of choir, orchestra, and solo voices build an enchanting symphony that resonates deeply with viewers and listeners alike.

As the name suggests, the Messiah is a musical interpretation of Jesus Christ's life, from prophecy and birth, through His passion, resurrection, and ascension, and finally culminating in his promise for the future. It is a work of intense drama, but, in the hands of these accomplished musicians, it is deeply touching and moving, no matter the viewer's religious persuasion.

The oratorio is divided into three parts, each with its own unique focus. The first part emphasizes prophecy and the birth of Jesus Christ, the second reflects on His passion, death, and resurrection, and the third encompasses His ascension and the promise of redemption. The overall goal of Handel's Messiah from BYUtv is to inspire, uplift, and evoke a poignant emotional experience in the heart of every viewer.

Each note performed on this show is delivered with such artistry and conviction that could only come from the skilled hands of the members of BYU's four choirs: the BYU Singers, Concert Choir, Men's Chorus, and Women's Chorus as well as the BYU Philharmonic Orchestra. The flawless delivery of the complex melody and harmony that Handel's Messiah demands is handled masterfully by these choirs and orchestras under the direction of conductors Andrew Crane, Rosalind Hall and Kory Katseanes, displaying a level of musical maturity that is truly commendable.

Adding to the musical experience are professionals and guest soloists who bring their own touch of brilliance. These include a team of internationally acclaimed soloists, such as soprano Melissa Heath, mezzo-soprano Jamilyn Manning-White, tenor Lawrence Vincent, and baritone David Sauer. Their powerful, awe-inspiring vocals are seamlessly integrated with the choruses, creating a multi-layered, rich tapestry of sound that echoes the deep spiritual themes embedded in Messiah's libretto.

On top of the spectacular music, the show also provides a background to Handel's composition of Messiah. It includes a narration that gives an insightful perspective into Handel's inspiration and the historical context surrounding the creation of the Messiah. This added layer of context only enhances the appreciation for this divine opus.

Shot at the lovely de Jong Concert Hall in the Harris Fine Arts Center at Brigham Young University, this concert is as much a visual treat as an auditory one. The grandeur of the concert hall and the subtle, carefully thought-out lighting create a warm, inviting atmosphere that further heightens the overall viewer experience.

Also noteworthy is the production quality of the program. With multi-camera and close-up shots, viewers are offered a detailed view of the conductors, soloists, choir, and musicians as they perform. The precision in every bow movement of the orchestra, as well as the passionate expressions of the conductors and singers, offer an intimate and engaging viewing experience. The show's direction makes one feel present in the concert hall, making it a perfect blend of a live concert and an impeccably shot television show.

Handel's Messiah from BYUtv is a timeless rendition that magnificently captures the majesty and beauty of George Frideric Handel's great masterpiece. It's a show that embodies a profound spirit of fellowship and joy that rings true to Handel's original intention for the oratorio – to inspire and uplift. Even if you're not typically an aficionado of orchestral music or concertos, this magnificent production is most certainly worth your time.

Overall, Handel's Messiah from BYUtv is more than just a musical performance; it's a captivating journey through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ as presented through Handel's timeless music. This BYUtv 2014 production offers an immersive and deeply moving musical experience that can be appreciated by music lovers of all ages.