As of 2023, the Handel and Haydn Society continues to thrive, bringing innovative programming and exceptional performances to its audiences. The society regularly hosts a season of concerts that feature a blend of classical masterworks and lesser-known gems, performed by its own professional chorus and period-instrument orchestra. Recent highlights include performances of Handel's 'Messiah' during the holiday season, which remains a beloved tradition, as well as explorations of works by Haydn, Vivaldi, and contemporary composers. In addition to its concert series, H+H has embraced technology to reach a wider audience, offering livestreamed concerts and virtual programming to engage music lovers who may not be able to attend in person. The society also places a strong emphasis on education and community engagement, offering workshops, lectures, and outreach programs that aim to inspire the next generation of musicians and audiences. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for music, the Handel and Haydn Society continues to be a vital part of Boston's cultural landscape and the broader classical music community.

Handel and Haydn Society History

The Handel and Haydn Society (H+H), founded in 1815 in Boston, Massachusetts, is one of the oldest continuously performing arts organizations in the United States. Its inception was rooted in the performance of the works of George Frideric Handel and Joseph Haydn, two of the most significant composers of the late Baroque and early Classical periods. The society was established by a group of musicians and music lovers who sought to revive and perform the works of these composers, which were often overlooked in their time. The first concert featured Handel's 'Messiah', a piece that would become a staple of H+H's repertoire. Over the years, the society expanded its focus to include other composers and genres, while maintaining its commitment to historically informed performances. H+H has played a pivotal role in the American early music movement and has been instrumental in promoting choral and orchestral works from the Baroque to the Romantic eras. The society has also contributed to the preservation of historical performance practices, making it a significant institution in the music community. Throughout the decades, H+H has collaborated with many renowned conductors and soloists, further enhancing its reputation as a leading ensemble in the United States and abroad.