Handel tended to work fast, but never quite as fast as in the summer of 1741, when he found himself in the grip of total inspiration while at work on his outstanding masterpiece, Messiah. What resulted was a work of incredible dramatic range, colossal imagination and huge variety – all underpinned by a sense of community and generosity.

A hybrid of German, Italian and English musical styles, Messiah changed the landscape of choral music in Britain. It continues to transcend cultural, geographical or religious boundaries with its message of peace, goodwill, sacrifice and charity.

Messiah’s rousing choruses and touching solos – its moments of deep reflection and uplifting celebration – are likely to sound particularly fresh under the musical leadership of Matthew Halls, who made his name with baroque music. Halls has first-rate solo and choral singers with him for this performance at the Grieg Hall which will anticipate the start of the festive season with brilliance.