One of my lifelong dreams came true last night. I have always wanted to attend a concert of Handel's Messiah, and last night I got my wish. One of my kind neighbors gave me her extra tickets. Wow.
This was our vantage point in the concert hall at Regent University. This place is really gorgeous with the deep olive color on the walls and the rich wood railings.
The VSO--aka Virginia Symphony Orchestra and Chorale arrived all dressed in their finery. The warm glow of the string instruments against all the black clothing made a lovely picture. The concert opened with the words, "Comfort, comfort ye, my people". Just what I needed to hear. Music for a broken heart.
The female conductor ( the first I've seen) did an incredible job. Look at all those intently focussed faces. Kind of different from the childrens' holiday programs we've been attending-- but each delightful in their own way.
There is a long tradition, dating from Handel's first performance in 1741, that when the Hallelujah Chorus is played, the audience stands up in honor of the King of Kings. That was the final movement in last night's concert, and true to tradition, the audience stood up. It was really very moving. It made you want to sing along, but it wasn't that kind of concert, so we listened in rapture.
When the concert ended, we exited to this gorgeous foyer. One of the most beautiful interiors I have ever seen. I could have stared at it all night long. I wish I had taken a closeup of the wallpaper. It was amazing. It looked handpainted and went so beautifully with that marble checkerboard floor. The chandeliers sparkled and shined as if nary a spot of dust was ever allowed to gather. The inlaid crest on center of the floor lent such dignity to the whole affair. I felt like I was in a very grand world for a couple of hours.
Inspiring music in an equally inspiring environment. How Heavenly.
These are the texts for the words to the Hallelujah Chorus. Maybe this will help bring up that familiar music in your head.
4 comments:
WOW, again God in His working. We must never forget and try to focus on the blessings of this season. I am so in awe of your night. It does help to dress in our finest and enjoy something so remarkable.
I applaud your neighbor for being so kind. We are surrounded by those who care during our time of sadness, sometimes it is just hard to see.
Love Sharon
Thank you for sharing this. We are going to hear/see it for our first time on Saturday. I loved reading your impressions and response to it. XO
Hallelujah! :) someday I would love to attend a Handel's Messiah concert as well. Thanks for sharing your wonderful experience ...
Liza
It's pretty hard to sit still when God is at work and you know it--isn't it? If we can feel just a little bit of that here on earth just imagine the happiness Joey is feeling being in His very presence.
It is so healing when we get to walk in the glory of our Lord.
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