25 March 2005.

Handel's Messiah was first presented in Dublin in 1742 and is certainly one of the German composers more popular works along with his Water Music. He composed the work while living in England where he resided for most of his later life. Handels Messiah is considered a very contemplative work, different from his usual dramatic style. Now an annual engagement, this year as in the past, the Royal Choral Society (RCS) will be presenting its annual performance of Handel's masterpiece, Messiah, at The Royal Albert Hall. The tradition of performing this work at Easter began in 1878. This year's soloists are Louise Poole, Andrew Staples and Simon Kirkbride. The RCS and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will be conducted by the Music Director of the RCS, Richard Cooke.