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Handel's Messiah

Academy of Ancient Music

,Barbican Hall
Photo of the sun's rays shining from behind a cloud

Laurence Cummings and the Academy of Ancient Music join a truly world-class team of soloists for a seasonal performance of Handel’s Messiah.

Hallelujah! Handel’s Messiah isn’t just a British Christmas fixture – it’s a landmark of European culture, performed annually at this time of year in a tradition dating back to the 18th century. With Laurence Cummings at the harpsichord, plus a cast headed by the outstanding American soprano Amanda Forsythe, it’ll come up as fresh as new paint. 

But then of course, you might say that the AAM has history with Messiah: back in 1980 they were the first orchestra ever to record it, complete, on period instruments. More than four decades on from that landmark achievement, it’s become normal to hear Handel’s great choral retelling of the life of Christ played in an historically-informed style. But Messiah always has something new to say – and the AAM are always thrilled to share it. 

Tagged with: Classical music AAM 2022-23 Academy of Ancient Music

This performance will end at approximately 10pm, including a 20-minute interval.

Programme

  • George Frideric Handel   Messiah

Performers

  • Academy of Ancient Music  
  • Laurence Cummings   director & harpsichord
  • Amanda Forsythe   soprano
  • Jess Dandy   contralto
  • Thomas Walker*   tenor
  • Ashley Riches*   bass

*Stuart Jackson and William Thomas have withdrawn from this performance due to illness. We are grateful to Thomas Walker and Ashley Riches for stepping in.

Pre-concert talk

6pm, Fountain Room

Free

Digital programme

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Barbican Hall

Location
The Barbican Hall is located within the main Barbican building. Head to Level G and follow the signs to find your seating level. 

Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS

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