Handel’s Messiah in NYC 2026: Every Performance & Sing-Along

Hearing Handel’s Messiah in December is one of New York’s great musical traditions. The city has period-instrument performances, full symphony orchestras, massed choral versions and even sing-alongs. Here are the major 2026 performances.

2026 Messiah Dates at a Glance

Trinity Church Wall Street (Dec 2–4)

Trinity’s Messiah is often called the gold standard in New York, performed complete on period instruments by the Trinity Choir and Trinity Baroque Orchestra. In 2026 it’s led by guest conductor Nicholas McGegan, a celebrated Handel specialist. Performances run about three hours in the church at 89 Broadway.

New York Philharmonic (Dec 9–13)

The Philharmonic’s Messiah at the renovated David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center is conducted in 2026 by Jeannette Sorrell, founder of the period ensemble Apollo’s Fire, so expect a lively, dance-like reading.

Oratorio Society of New York at Carnegie Hall

The Oratorio Society has performed Messiah at Carnegie Hall every December for well over a century, with a large chorus that makes the Hallelujah Chorus thrilling. Check osny.org for the 2026 date.

Tips

• Standing for the Hallelujah Chorus is a tradition; follow the room.
• Book Trinity early: it sells out.
• For more December music, see our Christmas concerts guide and Trinity Church’s full holiday concert series.

About Handel’s Messiah

George Frideric Handel composed Messiah in 1741 and it premiered in Dublin in 1742. Though written for Easter, it became a Christmas tradition, and its “Hallelujah” chorus is one of the most famous pieces of choral music ever written. Tradition holds that audiences stand for the “Hallelujah” chorus, a custom many attribute to King George II.

Period Instruments or Modern Orchestra?

Period-instrument performances, like Trinity’s, use instruments and techniques of Handel’s time, giving a lighter, livelier sound. Modern orchestras and large choruses, like the Oratorio Society’s, create a grander, fuller sound. Both are wonderful; try one of each if you can.

Sing-Along Messiahs

Some venues host sing-along performances where the audience sings the choruses. Check local listings in late November if you’d like to join in.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Messiah at Trinity Church in 2026?

December 2–4, 2026 at 7 p.m.

When is the New York Philharmonic Messiah 2026?

December 9–13, 2026 at David Geffen Hall, conducted by Jeannette Sorrell.