![[Classical] Masterpieces of oratorios. Recommended classical music.](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/15zcY3r7BYk/maxresdefault.webp)
[Classical] Masterpieces of oratorios. Recommended classical music.
The majestic harmonies resound, and the grand musical form known as the oratorio expresses Biblical stories through music.
Its history goes back to the Baroque era, and it has long been cherished as the pinnacle of sacred music.
Today, oratorios are performed not only in churches but also in concert halls, loved as a vital genre of classical music.
The true allure of the oratorio lies in the overwhelming richness and power created by the interweaving of chorus and orchestra.
It opens up a musical world distinct from opera.
In this article, we introduce masterful oratorios that have left their mark on the history of classical music.
[Classical] Masterpieces of oratorios. Recommended classical music (1–10)
“Hallelujah Chorus” from the oratorio MessiahGeorg Friedrich Händel
Georg Friedrich Handel, a composer who epitomizes the late Baroque.
His oratorio Messiah remains a masterpiece beloved around the world.
Among its movements, the chorus placed at the end of Part II is nothing short of breathtaking.
Words proclaiming joy surge like waves, and the layers of voices create a soaring elation that seems to reach the heavens.
The work’s divine power is convincing in light of the anecdote that Handel was inspired while composing it.
Since its premiere in April 1742, it has been cherished across eras, and in later years a gospel-style adaptation, Handel’s Messiah: A Soulful Celebration, won a Grammy Award.
It’s the perfect piece when you want your heart to tremble before monumental music.
the four seasonsFranz Joseph Haydn
This is a magnificent oratorio that crowns the later years of Franz Joseph Haydn, known as the “Father of the Symphony.” From the breath of spring to the severity of winter, it vividly depicts the cycle of the seasons and the lives of the people who dwell within them.
The way it uses music to portray natural sounds—like birdsong and the roar of storms—makes it feel as if the scenery is changing right before your eyes.
The anecdote that Haydn composed his first “chorus in praise of labor” in this work also lends it profound depth.
Since its premiere in April 1801, many outstanding performances have been preserved, so if you want to experience the beauty of the seasons through grand music, this is well worth a listen.
Oratorio “The Kingdom of God,” Op. 51Edward Elgar
This is a solemn oratorio by the British composer Edward Elgar, also known for works such as “Pomp and Circumstance.” Premiered in October 1906 under the composer’s own baton, the piece draws on the Acts of the Apostles, portraying the disciples’ prayers and labors through music.
Rather than operatic dramatics, it is characterized by an overall atmosphere that is contemplative and suffused with prayer.
In the scene of the descent of the Holy Spirit, the chorus and orchestra merge to create an overwhelming sonic space, while the Virgin Mary’s aria offers a radiant, beautiful melody that resonates deeply in the heart.
Enveloped in grand harmonies, it is an ideal work for quietly turning inward and reflecting on oneself.
Oratorio ‘Solomon’: The Arrival of the Queen of ShebaFranz Joseph Haydn
Handel’s masterpiece oratorio, Samson.
The instrumental piece performed in Act III is renowned among classical works for its especially festive atmosphere.
Depicting the splendid arrival of a queen from the Old Testament, it features a striking, energetic interplay between oboes and strings.
It’s as if the palace doors swing open and a dazzling procession sweeps in with radiant light.
Although originally presented in March 1749 as part of the oratorio’s premiere, the piece also drew wide attention when it was performed at the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics.
There may be no piece more fitting as celebratory background music.
Oratorio Judas Maccabaeus, Act III: See, the Conqu’ring Hero ComesGeorg Friedrich Händel
When you hear “the awards ceremony song,” isn’t this the melody many people think of? This famous tune, beloved in settings ranging from school sports days to many other occasions, was written in the 1740s by the Baroque master George Frideric Handel.
In fact, within the oratorio Judas Maccabaeus, this piece is performed as the people greet a hero returning victorious from battle with jubilant celebration.
Not only does it have a background perfectly suited to award scenes, but its dignified, stately melody impressed even Beethoven, who wrote a set of variations on its theme.
It’s said that Handel originally composed it for a different work, then incorporated it into this piece himself as a confident showpiece.
A song that proclaims the glory of victory in resounding tones—truly a triumphant march worthy of the name.
Saint Paul, Op. 36Felix Mendelssohn
A monumental oratorio by Felix Mendelssohn in which grand chorus and orchestra unite to paint the Bible’s dramatic narratives in sound.
Mendelssohn is renowned for reviving Bach’s music, and you can feel his profound reverence for that tradition in this work as well.
The piece traces the spiritual journey of Saul, once a persecutor, as he converts and becomes the Apostle Paul.
The overwhelming power of the chorus is no mere backdrop; at times it embodies the crowd, at others the community of believers, propelling the story with compelling force.
Premiered in May 1836, the work was celebrated as one of the composer’s signature pieces during his lifetime.
It is a masterpiece—ideal for immersing yourself in majestic, narrative-rich music that offers a different flavor from opera.
From Samson HWV 57: ‘Return, O Lord of Hosts’Georg Friedrich Händel
A masterpiece of the oratorio genre by Baroque great George Frideric Handel, Samson.
The piece sung within the drama portrays a hero at the brink of despair and the heartfelt prayers of the people who care for him.
Its chief allure lies in the way an introspective alto solo prayer gradually unfolds into a majestic chorus.
It beautifully expresses a profound supplication to God and the yearning for hope amid hardship.
Acclaimed since its 1743 premiere, the October 1952 recording by the celebrated contralto Kathleen Ferrier is renowned as a historic classic.
Highly recommended for those who love classical music with grand, solemn narratives.