Messiah Christmas Suite

When the Christmas season approaches, choir lofts across the world inevitably turn to the majestic sounds of George Frideric Handel. But performing the full oratorio is a massive undertaking for most parish choirs. Tom Fettke’s "Messiah Christmas Suite" solves this beautifully, weaving the most beloved choruses of the work into one continuous, thrilling arrangement.

This suite takes us on a journey through the prophecy and birth of Christ. It opens with the bright anticipation of "And the Glory of the Lord," moves into the joyful declaration of "For Unto Us a Child is Born," and features a soaring solo that leads straight into the angelic chorus of "Glory to God." The arrangement then sweeps through "Rejoice Greatly" and "Lift Up Your Heads" before culminating in the triumphant, unmistakable "Hallelujah" chorus.

For a choir director, this piece is an absolute gift for a Christmas carol service, a concert, or a grand festive Mass. It captures the grandeur and classical brilliance of the original work while keeping the transitions smooth and manageable. Singing it brings a profound sense of celebration to the congregation, reminding us all of the mighty God and Prince of Peace whose birth we gather to honor.