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Handel’s Messiah

Dec 17-19, 2026
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Overview

Be part of a quintessential holiday tradition!

Heaped with uplifting messages and intimate storytelling, Handel’s Messiah never fails to inspire. While the iconic melodies — including “For Unto Us a Child is Born” and the Hallelujah Chorus — are instantly recognizable, hearing the full oratorio performed live is an unforgettable experience. A stellar cast of soloists and the Chicago Symphony Chorus join Masaaki Suzuki, whose past Messiah performances have been lauded as “bracing and vital” (Washington Classical Review).

  • Venue
    Symphony Center
  • Price
    $49.00+ (incl. fees)
  • Length
    2 hours 40 minutes
  • Preconcert conversation
    Oliver Camacho
Schedule
Program
Handel

Messiah

Performers
Conductor
Countertenor
Paul Max Tipton
Bass-baritone
Chorus Director

Extras

Enhance your concert experience.

Preconcert Conversation

Explore the music in a free preconcert conversation featuring Oliver Camacho in Orchestra Hall 75 minutes before the performance. The talk will last approximately 30 minutes. No additional tickets are needed.


Preconcert Dining

Explore Symphony Center’s on-site dining options for a seamless preconcert experience. Preorder a Sound Bites meal to enjoy in the Rotunda at Symphony Center before the concert — or make a reservation to dine at the Thomas Club, offering a prix fixe menu featuring traditional American fare and a spectacular view of lake Michigan. View menus and learn more »

Sponsors & Partners

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


Discover more on Experience CSO
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.”
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The Chicago Orchestra's first performances of Handel's Messiah were a collaboration with the Apollo Musical Club in December 1891 at the Auditorium Theatre.
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