Quote:
Originally Posted by MysticCat
The story, first recorded 30+ years after Messiah's premiere, is that King George stood as the chorus started and remained standing throughout. Depending on who you ask or what source you consult, the reason supposedly was (1) to acknowledge the "King of Kings and Lord of Lords," (2) because he was so moved by the music, or (3) to stretch his legs. But when the king stands, everone else present must stand.
But whatever the reason, it's been going on since the 1750s or so, on both sides of The Pond.
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Funny. We sang this during the our church cantata this year, and Bill, the guy who sits next to me (I sing tenor) made a comment about whether or not everyone would stand "as they are supposed to" and sure enough, everyone did.
I dunno. I kinda like it.... for reason #1.