O THOU THAT TELLEST

There is a special kind of electricity in the choir loft when we bring out Handel’s Messiah during the Advent and Christmas seasons. "O Thou That Tellest" is one of those magnificent pieces that perfectly captures the joyful anticipation of the season. The text, drawn from the book of Isaiah, is a vibrant call to spread the good news, urging the messenger to climb the high mountain and lift up their voice without fear.

The arrangement opens with a warm, sweeping alto solo that carries the narrative forward. It is a wonderful moment for the soloist to shine, delivering the prophetic message to "arise, shine, for thy light is come." The melody is incredibly uplifting, building a sense of glorious expectation as it repeats the command to "behold your God!"

When the full chorus finally enters, the energy shifts into a triumphant, unified proclamation. The sopranos take up the joyful melody, supported by the rich harmonies of the alto, tenor, and bass lines. Singing this piece feels like a true celebration. It challenges the choir with its moving lines and classical phrasing, but the result is a majestic sound that fills the church and lifts the hearts of the entire congregation.