Oxford’s 1749 Messiah
12 December @ 4.00pm to 7.00pm
About Oxford’s 1749 Messiah
In 1749, the hottest new music in London arrived in Oxford to mark the opening of the Radcliffe Camera.
In honour of the architectural connection between the Radcliffe Camera and the new Schwarzman Centre, period ensemble Instruments of Time and Truth and conductor Edward Higginbottom bring Messiah to life in a full-length version rarely heard today.
Drawing on Oxford’s archives, this performance aims to recreate the version premiered in Oxford by former Heather Professor of Music and Magdalen College organist, William Hayes, who was instrumental in taking Messiah to the provinces and making it the famous work it is today.
Expect a performance honouring the 18th-century spirit: ambitious, celebratory, and full of invention.
Performers:
Instruments of Time and Truth
Rowan Pierce soprano
Hugh Cutting alto
Thomas Herford tenor
Daniel Tate bass
Oxford Consort of Voices
Edward Higginbottom conductor
Repertoire:
Handel Messiah
Tickets
Please see important booking information below.
Booking information
Ticket prices:
From £26.95 to £53.90
Tickets are subject to a transaction fee
Dates & times:
Saturday 12 December 2026 at 4.00pm
Running time:
3 hours 10 minutes, including two intervals
Location:
Sohmen Concert Hall
