I have been enjoying Handel’s Messiah during my commute for the past few weeks.  I’ve always loved the “Hallelujah Chorus,” but prior to this year had not paid much attention to the many other beautiful songs that are part of Messiah.

One of my favorites is “Rejoice Greatly.”  Here’s a performance I found on youtube (there are several to choose from):

I liked the Spanish subtitles.  I couldn’t find one on youtube with English subtitles.

The text is taken from Zacharias 9:9-10.  Here are the words:  “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion.  Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, thy King cometh unto thee! He is the righteous Saviour, and He shall speak peace unto the heathen.”

I was not aware until recently that the text for Messiah was written by Charles Jenner (and not Handel).  I believe most if not all of the text is taken from biblical passages.

I’ll add more links to other favorite Christmas music in the next few days.