New version of "Messiah"?
Well, here's a thread that may cause considerable controversy depending on how many purists are out there.
As most of us all know, Handel's “Messiah” is probably the most significant work of choral literature in the English language. Because of its famous “Hallelujah!” chorus, it has been a staple in Christmas and Easter festivities. While the original version can stand alone, several adaptations and arrangements have been made of the work ever since its composition, many by Handel himself. These include large orchestral arrangements with choirs of hundreds or sometimes thousands of people, to a complete gospel/jazz version, still the “Messiah” but updated to modern styles.
Thomas Beecham's 1959 version of “Messiah” was a large orchestration that brought out the true reverence and majestic glory of the work; it gives “Messiah” new meaning. However, it does have some flaws that detract from the performance: some because of orchestration, others by tempo and interpretation. The recording has re-inspired me to commit to orchestrating a new version of “Messiah”, far larger and hopefully better than Beecham's version.
Now I know all the purists are going to be yelling and screaming that “Messiah” is a baroque work and it should stay the way it is. I being a purist myself still believe that the full potential of a truly great work does not show itself in its original form, but in its adaptations and survival throughout history. I heard once in an interview that “Messiah” should be compared to a Gothic Cathedral, never completed but continuously being constructed by new generations of builders adding their own style and flavor to the edifice. That is my intention with “Messiah.” To put my own stamp on one of the greatest works ever written.
Any thoughts?
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