AND THE GLORY OF THE LORD

"And the Glory of the Lord" is one of the most recognizable and thrilling choruses from George Frideric Handel’s Messiah. Setting the prophetic words of Isaiah, the piece captures the anticipation and majesty of the coming Christ. For a choir, this chorus is a joyous workout of rolling vocal lines and bright, declarative entries. The sopranos often lead the charge, announcing the revelation of God's glory, before the other voices join in a grand, sweeping conversation.

In Nigerian parishes and choral groups, this piece is a staple during the Advent and Christmas seasons, as well as for major concerts and festive celebrations. Singing "and all flesh shall see it together" requires the whole choir to lock into a unified, rhythmic stride that feels incredibly powerful from the loft. It is a song of absolute certainty, ending with the firm, grounded statement that "the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it."

Mastering the solfa notation for this classical chorus is a rite of passage for many singers. The overlapping entries and sustained phrases demand breath control and attentive listening, but the result is a magnificent sound that lifts the congregation and sets a triumphant tone for the season of expectation.