Quote:
Originally Posted by Kevin
I've played this piece a number of times and have never heard of the audience standing. I'm not a singer though, so maybe it's a different experience?
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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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