I grew up listening to this version of Handel's Messiah. I love it more than a chocolate bar or a bowl of rocky road. I dare say it's one of my all time favorite things. Yesterday, on my way to picking up the kids from school, I blasted track 7, "And He Shall Purify." I sang along like I was the first chair soprano in the Mo Tab. (I know there's really no such thing, right?) I could only sing to about the middle of the song. Then I had to windshield wipe the tears from my face. Christmas isn't Christmas without a lot of, "And He shall reign for ever and ever..." You feelin' me?P.S. Did you know Frederick Handel was down in the dumps financially and mentally when he composed Messiah? It only took him 24 days to complete the entire score. Amazing. That's what mi madre told me, anyway, and she's right 110% of the time.
I loved seeing this album cover, because Eileen Farrell was the first opera singer I ever knew. I learned about arias from one of her albums and would play it over and over.
ReplyDeleteWonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.
Never get tired of singing that.
Me either, Louise. I tear up every single time I hear or sing it.
ReplyDeleteI've never heard, but no time like the present to expand my horizons!
ReplyDeleteI love it too and don't think I've gone 10 years without playing in a performance of it. This will be a first. Unless you count the Stake Fireside on Sunday where at least I get to play the Hallelujah chorus. Actually, it's a congregational sing a long so you can too!!
ReplyDeleteAmy, Last night I meant to tell you how awesome I think you are. We will be there for the Hallelujah chorus!
ReplyDeleteThis is random but I decided to click the "next blog>>" button at the top of the page and yours popped up. Anyway here I am doing something I don't normally do. Your mother was right about Handel. Aug 22 to September 14. Cheers.
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