The Hallelujah Chorus is the best known and most dramatic section from The Messiah, an oratorio first performed in Dublin in 1742 with the composer conducting. In addition to the chorus, the original orchestration called for two oboes, two bassoons, two horns, timpani, strings and keyboard instruments. King George III, in attendance at the premier performance, is said to have suddenly leaped to his feet on hearing the opening chords. Historians disagree, however, as to whether his majesty was merely showing his appreciation of the music or whether, as one story goes, he had been startled out of a sound sleep. Whichever, the entire audience followed the regal example, thereby instituting a tradition which has persisted for more than two centuries. Even today it is customary for an audience to rise during the performance of this exciting work. Duration: 4.00
