Messiah, by George Frideric Handel, is one of the most famous and most performed works in the Western choral literature. It is especially popular during both the Advent/Christmas and Easter seasons. The text (the libretto) was taken almost entirely from the King James version of the Bible by Handel's longtime collaborator, Charles Jennens. The work is scored for soprano, alto, tenor and bass soloists, a full chorus, 2 oboes, bassoon, 2 trumpets, timpani, strings and basso continuo.

The Messiah contains the majestic Hallelujah Chorus (also spelled Halleluliah). Legend has it that at the Messiah's first London performance in 1742, King George II, who was in attendance, rose to his feet during the triumphant opening of the Hallelujah Chorus. As was the custom of the time, when royalty stood, then everyone in his presence also would stand. It has now become the accepted practice that the audience stands during the playing of the Hallelujah Chorus.

Other famous movements from the Messiah include For Unto Us A Child Is Born, And He Shall Purify, And The Glory Of The Lord, Every Valley Shall Be Exalted, He Shall Feed His Flock and the final Amen chorus.