Handel's Messiah Sydney
Visitors experience an annual presentation of Handel's immortal oratorio, Messiah, inside the historic Sydney Town Hall. The concert features the Handel's Messiah Sydney Choir of over 400 voices led by Conductor Tim Chung, accompanied by Organist Mark Quarmby on the Town Hall organ, alongside an orchestra and soloists. The performance runs for about two and a half hours, including a 20-minute interval, and includes the Hallelujah Chorus.
What to Expect
85th annual performance featuring a choir of over 400 voices.
Event Details
Duration
About 2 hours 30 minutes, including a 20 minute interval.
Ages
Children and students under 18 are welcome (must be accompanied by a parent or guardian)
Neighborhood
Sydney CBD
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Radio Community Chest Incorporated
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Classical music and choral music enthusiasts
Vibe
Grand and seasonal
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Low
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Both performances: 3.00 pm.
Tips & Advice
- Pick either the Saturday or Sunday performance, since both feature the same choir, conductor, organist, soloists and orchestra.
- Allow about two and a half hours, including the 20-minute interval, so you don't have to leave before the Hallelujah Chorus.
- If you'd rather sing than listen, register for the non-auditioning choir and attend the Monday evening rehearsals at St Stephen's Uniting Church.
- Book online through TryBooking ahead of time, or buy at the door before the performance starts.
Special Events & Promotions
- This is the 85th annual performance of Messiah by Radio Community Chest.
- Soloists for 2026: soprano Hannah Burton, alto Sidra Nissen, tenor Seungkwon Jang and bass Jeremy Boulton.
- Singers can join the choir for the season, with Monday evening rehearsals at St Stephen's Uniting Church from October 19 to December 7.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is performing?
The 400+ voice Handel's Messiah Sydney Choir performs with conductor Tim Chung and organist Mark Quarmby on the Town Hall organ, plus an orchestra. The soloists are soprano Hannah Burton, alto Sidra Nissen, tenor Seungkwon Jang and bass Jeremy Boulton.
How long does the concert run?
About two and a half hours, including a 20-minute interval.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Yes. Tickets are sold online through TryBooking or at the door before each performance.
Can I sing in the choir?
Yes. It's a non-auditioning choir that welcomes trained singers and enthusiastic amateurs. Under-18s can join if a parent or guardian comes with them. Rehearsals run on Monday evenings from October 19 to December 7 at St Stephen's Uniting Church.
Where does the money go?
Radio Community Chest is a registered charity. Any surplus from the Messiah performances goes to helping people in need in Sydney.
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