This week, we are exploring the Messiah oratorio composed by George Fredrick Handel.
Handel was an interesting character. Born in Germany, immigrated to England. His opera seria were popular back in the day. Then, when the middle class began their ascent into power, opera seria wasn't so popular. Handel turned to oratorios as one way to win back audiences.
He wrote this oratorio about Jesus Christ in under 24 days. Some sources say he didn't leave his home until it was finished.
I enjoyed singing this part back in my university days. Here's "For Unto Us a Child is Born":