from today's edition of "The Writer's Almanac"
It was on this day in 1743, that George Frideric Handel’s oratorio "Messiah" had its London premiere.
During the famous Hallelujah Chorus, King George II was so moved by the music that he involuntarily rose from his seat.
The audience, out of respect for the king, also stood up.
Ever since, it has been a tradition that the audience rises during the singing of the Hallelujah Chorus.
It was on this day in 1743, that George Frideric Handel’s oratorio "Messiah" had its London premiere.
During the famous Hallelujah Chorus, King George II was so moved by the music that he involuntarily rose from his seat.
The audience, out of respect for the king, also stood up.
Ever since, it has been a tradition that the audience rises during the singing of the Hallelujah Chorus.
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