George Frideric Handel: I Know That My Redeemer Liveth
Messiah Part III
Context
George Frideric Handel’s Messiah has remained one of the composer’s most beloved works. Incredibly, Handel completed this 260-page oratorio in just 24 days during the summer of 1741. The scriptural text was compiled by Charles Jennens, with the source being the King James Bible. The first performance of Messiah was on 13th April 1742, to celebrate Easter.
Initially the oratorio garnered a lukewarm reception from audiences, however the work began to gain popularity over some years, with it now being the go-to work to perform during the Easter period. During this new Messiah exploration on Classicalexburns, blogs will be posted regularly to cover all of the pieces involved in making up this much-loved oratorio.
The Lyrics
I know that my redeemer liveth
And that he shall stand
At the latter day, upon the earth
I know that my redeemer liveth
And that he shall
At the latter day, upon the earth
Upon the earth
I know that my redeemer liveth
And he shall stand
Stand at the latter day, upon the earth
Upon the earth
And though worms destroy this body
Yet in my flesh shall i see God
Yet in my flesh shall i see God
I know that my redeemer liveth
And though worms destroy this body
Yet in my flesh shall i see God
Yet in my flesh shall i see God
Shall i see God
I know that my redeemer liveth
For now is Christ risen from the dead
The first fruits of them that sleep
Of them that sleep
The first fruits of them that sleep
For now is Christ risen
For now is Christ risen from the dead
The first fruits of them that sleep
The Music
To open the much anticipated Part III of the Messiah, Handel writes a significant aria for soprano. The words reflect an expression of faith in redemption, alongside the announcement of the Second Coming of Christ. One of the most recorded pieces within the Messiah, this aria ties together themes from previous parts of the oratorio, including relying on the fourth interval to shape phrases and harmony, and showcasing Handel’s vivid word painting. An example of this can be seen during the phrase ‘For now is Christ risen’, which sees the music slowly rising across a long melodic line. The main melody of the piece has been used as the basis for hymn tunes and other similar forms. As it began, the aria ends quietly.
Ⓒ Alex Burns
Happy Reading!
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