Handel's Messiah sung by boy trebles rather than adult sopranos, in a Gothic nave on Fifth Avenue, backed by the period instruments of New York Baroque Incorporated — the Messiah The New York Times called “one of the most prominent and special” in the city. Richard Tanner conducts the Saint Thomas Choir of Men and Boys with four soloists across about two and a half hours. If Geffen Hall feels too big for Baroque, come here instead.
What to expect
You sit in the nave of Saint Thomas Church at Fifth Avenue and 53rd Street for roughly two and a half hours of the complete oratorio. The Choir of Men and Boys sings with New York Baroque Incorporated on period instruments under Richard Tanner, joined by soprano, countertenor, tenor and bass-baritone soloists. A livestream ticket is sold for anyone who cannot attend in person.
Good to know
- Saint Thomas Church sits at Fifth Avenue and 53rd Street; the E or M to Fifth Av–53 St leaves you a block away.
- Two in-person performances are offered, plus a livestream ticket if both fill up.
- Church pews are hard and the concert runs about two and a half hours — an aisle seat helps.
- It is a working church open to all faiths and none, but the stone nave stays cool, so bring a layer.
- The Fifth Avenue store windows and Rockefeller Center are a short walk north — easy to combine into one outing.
- Sightlines in a church are column-dependent; arrive early if you want an unobstructed view of the choir.
Going? Keep it.
Common questions
Who performs?
The Saint Thomas Choir of Men and Boys with New York Baroque Incorporated on period instruments and four vocal soloists, conducted by Richard Tanner.
Can I watch from home?
Yes — Saint Thomas sells a livestream ticket alongside the in-person one.