My account Cart Symphony Store

Handel’s Messiah

Dec 16 - Dec 19, 2021
Handel Messiah
Overview Program Performers

Overview

From the awe-inspiring “Hallelujah” chorus to the many thrilling and intimate arias, Handel’s landmark oratorio is an unmissable CSO holiday tradition. Nicholas McGegan, “one of the finest Baroque conductors of his generation” (The Independent), leads a glorious reunion of the assembled forces of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus.

Ticket holders are invited to a free preconcert conversation featuring Laura Prichard in Orchestra Hall 75 minutes before the performance. The conversation will last approximately 30 minutes. No additional tickets required.

Program
Handel

Messiah

Performers
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Nicholas McGegan
Conductor
Yulia Van Doren
Soprano
Reginald Mobley
Countertenor
Ben Bliss
Tenor
Dashon Burton
Bass-baritone
Chicago Symphony Chorus
Duain Wolfe
Chicago Symphony Chorus Director and Conductor (1994–2022)
Sponsors

The appearance of Yulia Van Doren, Reginald Mobley, Ben Bliss and Dashon Burton is made possible by the Grainger Fund for Excellence.

The appearance of the Chicago Symphony Chorus has been made possible by a generous gift from The Grainger Foundation.

Discover more on Experience CSO
Nicholas McGegan advocates for all music, from early to modern
Conductor Nicholas McGegan has little patience for the notion that there ever was — or still is — a feud between musicians who perform 17th- and 18th-century music in so-called authentic style on period instruments and those who don’t.
Explore more
‘Hallelujah’! A few facts about Handel’s ‘Messiah’
So popular is Handel's "Messiah" that it has been called “the one great work that not only embodies a religion but is a religion itself.”
Explore more
Handel Zadok The Priest, Coronation Anthem I
Nicholas Kraemer, a leading specialist in Handel’s music, conducts the stirring anthem Zadok the Priest.
Explore more


The Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association is committed to creating a comfortable, enjoyable and safe environment.

For everyone’s comfort and safety, all patrons must wear a face mask throughout their visit.

Individuals are expected to self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms before attending a CSOA event. Patrons who are not feeling well, are exhibiting any COVID-19 symptoms or have had or been exposed to COVID-19 in the past 10 days should contact Patron Services for flexible exchange and refund options.

Visit cso.org/SafeAndSound for the most recent information. Ticket holders receive specific instructions for entry ahead of each performance. Please note, other venues in Chicago may have policies that differ from Symphony Center.