Messiah HWV 56 by Händel, -tól (2013/2013), Karmester Adrian Partington, Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester, United Kingdom

Since its eagerly awaited Easter debut in 1742, Messiah has become a Christmas tradition, especially for us. It remains the most popular oratorio in the choral repertoire, a masterpiece of invention and depth. The drama unfold in three acts; Act one – nimble, rousing and calling for impeccable control. Act two features the famously spectacular Halleluiah Chorus (cue thunderous applause) and the whole brilliane closes with Act three, a gloriously over-the-top composition for orchestra and choir, full of shifting tempos, counterpoint and fugues. Exquisite. Handel is the greatest composer that ever lived. -Beethoven