“Chorus from Judas Maccabaeus” by G.F. Handel

by Pier Paolo Maccarrone

The “Chorus from Judas Maccabaeus” is one of the most famous choral pieces by the composer George Frideric Handel, taken from the oratorio Judas Maccabaeus, composed in 1746. This piece is also known by its title “See, the Conqu’ring Hero Comes!”

Historical and musical context
The oratorio Judas Maccabaeus was written to celebrate the victory of the Duke of Cumberland over the Jacobite forces at the Battle of Culloden. Handel used the figure of Judas Maccabaeus, a hero of Jewish tradition, as a symbol of heroism and freedom. The work tells the story of the Jewish people’s struggle for liberation from oppression.

The chorus
The famous chorus “See, the Conqu’ring Hero Comes!” appears in the third act of the oratorio and celebrates the triumphant return of the hero. It is written in a majestic and solemn style, with a marching rhythm and a melody that is simple yet powerful. The music conveys a sense of joy and solemnity, and is often performed at official ceremonies and celebratory events.

Musical features_____________________________

Key: often in B-flat major (in my arrangement for cello I used the key in D major)

Tempo: moderate or march-like, emphasizing the triumphant character

Structure: features repetition and choral phrases that highlight unity and strength

Instrumentation: mixed choir (SATB) and Baroque orchestra, with trumpets and timpani that enhance the festive atmosphere

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Curiosities

This chorus became so popular that it has been adapted for non-religious celebrations, and its melody was even used by Beethoven in a set of variations. In Germany, the theme is known as “Tochter Zion, freue dich”, a traditional Advent and Christmas hymn.