A Festive Tale: The Story of Christmas Music
Led by Professor Raymond Holden, this musical programme comprises two lectures on seasonal music traditions. The first talk traces the evolution of Christmas music from fourth-century Roman chants to modern screen and liturgical settings using sound recordings and film clips. The second session presents an audio-visual study of George Frideric Handel's 'Messiah', detailing how performance styles and cuts have shifted across centuries.
What to Expect
Two illustrated lectures exploring Christmas music history and Handel's Messiah.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Covent Garden
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The Arts Society
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Christmas music and classical music enthusiasts
Vibe
Scholarly and seasonal
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Low
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
Tips & Advice
- Consider bringing a notebook to jot down composers, dates and performance changes mentioned in the Christmas music and Messiah lectures.
- Set aside the full 10:45–13:00 window, as the programme includes two lectures on distinct subjects.
- If you are unfamiliar with Messiah, listening to a recording beforehand may help you follow the discussion of its performance history.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who delivers the lectures?
The sessions are led by conductor, broadcaster, and author Professor Raymond Holden AM, Emeritus Professor of Music at the Royal Academy of Music.
What subjects are covered during the event?
The programme covers the history and cultural impact of Christmas music from early Roman roots to the present, followed by an audio-visual exploration of Handel's oratorio 'Messiah'.
More Christmas Events near London
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.