Handel's Messiah by Candlelight at Worcester Cathedral

If there’s one piece of music that epitomises the run-up to Christmas, it’s Handel’s glittering masterpiece, Messiah… and now there’s a chance to hear the oratorio sung by 140 voices and renowned soloists at Worcester Cathedral on Saturday 9 December at 7.30pm.

The specially candlelit concert, which includes choral favourites such as the Hallelujah chorus and For unto us a child is born, is being staged by the region’s leading large classical choir, Worcester Festival Choral Society.

Also appearing are acclaimed soloists Emilia Morton (soprano), Tom Lilburn (counter tenor), Matthew Minter (tenor) and James Oldfield (bass baritone). Accompanying is the Meridian Sinfonia Baroque orchestra. The concert is led by Worcester Cathedral’s director of music, Samuel Hudson.

Written more than 280 years ago, Handel’s Messiah remains one of the world’s most popular choral works. When King George II attended its premiere in 1742, he is said to have been so moved by the Hallelujah chorus that he rose to his feet – a tradition that audiences continue today.

Tickets from www.wfcs.online and TicketSource 0333 666 3366 (local call rate).