Vocal score

George Frideric Handel

Edited by Clifford Bartlett

Forces or Category: SATB soloists, SATB choir & orchestra

Orchestration: 2 oboes, 2 trumpets, bassoon, timpani, strings, harpsichord or organ

There is no single definitive version of Messiah. Handel continued to make revisions to the score throughout his life either to improve it or to suit the abilities of individual performers or the needs of an occasion. This edition presents the standard version (with which most people are familiar) complete with a new, practical piano reduction. The appendix contains most of Handel's alternative movements and transpositions. The full score includes all the alternative movements and transpositions in their correct sequence and all material is signposted clearly and cross-referenced with the vocal score. 

Clifford Bartlett provides a text that is as close as possible to the sources, yet is presented with performers' needs in mind. Both full and vocal scores provide guidance on performance practice, and the vocal score includes ance piano/organ reduction suitable for both rehearsal purposes and performance without orchestra.