Rehearsing Handel's Messiah
1. Sinfonia
Time: 4/4 conducted in 8 (opening section), in 2 (faster section); Key: E minor
This is the oveture to the Messiah, consisting of a slow introduction and a faster fugal section.
Scales to practice
Practice these scales at different speeds to familiarise yourself with the common notes of the E minor scales.
Rhythm exercises:
The opening section is characterised by double dotted rhythms. You can practice the dotted rhythm on a single note, such as a concert E, taking care to place the semi-quaver clearly on every 8th semi-quaver. You also need to take care to place the demi-semi-quavers. We are aiming for a speed of about 60 beats per minute.
The Allegro moderato tempo is aiming for about a crotchet pulse of 120 bpm. This rhythm will help with starting on the off-beat and practicing a minim tied over the barline to a quaver pattern. The scales and rhythm exercises can be played from the player below.
2. Recitative for tenor - COMFORT YE
Time: 4/4 conducted in 8; Key: E major
This is an accompanied recitative until the last 8 bars where the chords are directed between the text
Scales to practice
Practice the scale of E major (F#, C#, G#, D#) or the relevant scale for transposing instruments.
Rhythm exercises:
At a speed of about 60 quaver beats per minute, aim to keep a good quaver pulse and precise dotted rhythms:
3. Aria for tenor - Ev'ry valley shall be exalted
Time: 4/4 conducted in 4; Key: E major; metronome at approx 104 beats per minute
This is an aria for the tenor soloist.
Scales to practice
Practice the scale of E major (F#, C#, G#, D#) or the relevant scale for transposing instruments.
Placement of the chords in the recitative ending:
Rhythm exercises:
At a speed of about 104 crotchet beats per minute, keep a good dotted rhythm and tied note across the barline. Practising without the tie first might help to keep the semi-quavers placed,
3. Aria for tenor - Ev'ry valley shall be exalted
Time: 3/4 conducted in 3; Key: A major; metronome at approx 124 beats per minute
This the first chorus in the Messiah and sets the text:
And the Glory of the Lord, shall be revealed,
and all flesh shall see it together,
for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it
Scales to practice
Practice the scale of A major (F#, C#, G#) or the relevant scale for transposing instruments.
Rhythm exercises:
At a speed of about 124 crotchet beats per minute, maintain a balanced three-time rhythm.
