Resources
Learn all the chorus parts
If you’d like to join the chorus and have not sung this work before, you may like to start learning your part before the first rehearsal, using these resources:
Learn to sing the Messiah (Part 1) This is the best resource on the internet, produced by Andrew Griggs. Each part is talked through, and verbally conducted, and sung by some pretty good English singers. The score is shown at the same time.
CYBERBASS has piano accompaniments for all parts, with separate parts highlighted. You can choose playback speed, working up to full speed as you become more confident.
CHORDPERFECT has each part highlighted, with some English choristers singing, and shows the score simultaneously as a YouTube video. Less recommended, since it’s best not to imitate this singing, but to find your own optimal sound. However, you can scroll through the tracks for the Messiah and find your part, to begin learning.
Choose a part to start learning!
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Soprano
If you are a woman or child who can sing high, and who likes to have the main melody, this part is for you. If can reliably sing to A5 (the A an octave plus a 6th above middle C), then you will be able to mange this part. If that’s a bit high, try the alto line!
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Alto
Women, children or countertenors who have a comfortable middle range and can hold a harmony will enjoy learning the alto line. The range is from A3 (a minor third below middle C) to D5 (an octave plus a tone above middle C).
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Tenor
Men whose voices sit comfortably high should try out the tenor line. If you can’t quite make the top notes, you can always lip-synch for a few beats, whilst those who like the limelight take over. The range is from C3 (an Octave below middle C) to G 4 (a fifth above middle C).
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Bass
Choose this part if you are a man who prefers to sing low. The range is from Middle C (C4) down to the C two octaves below middle C (C2).