My favorite is this one – Robert Shaw, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Great tempos, terrific soloists.
http://www.amazon.com/Handel-Complete-Oratorio-George-Frideric/dp/B000003CT7
And I’d also mention this one, for a big chorus version – Otto Klemperer, Philharmonia Orchestra of London. This version played in our house at Christmas, growing up in Chicago.
http://www.amazon.com/Messiah-George-Frideric-Handel/dp/B000002S20
And finally for a good version with period instruments – Boston Baroque.
http://www.amazon.com/Handel-Messiah-Ledbetter-Baroque-Pearlman/dp/B000003CYY
The Robert Shaw and Boston Baroque versions are bargains on Amazon. The Klemperer is apparently out of print (though
available from some sellers).
– Bay Area Entrepreneur Don Lundell is a longtime musician and music fan who is a particularly discerning aficionado of Christmas music and Christmas cheer. Along with his partner, Gillian, he operates Zombierunner.com, a store for all things related to running that also offers delicious specialty items such as gourmet coffees. Zombierunner.com is an excellent place to do all your Christmas shopping.
The 20 Greatest Christmas Albums of All Time, By Don Lundell
