The Handel Oratorio, 'The MESSIAH', is a musical work composed by George Frideric Handel in 1741. It is one of the most popular and frequently performed choral works in Western music. The oratorio is structured in three parts, with each part containing a number of individual movements. The text of the oratorio is taken from the King James Bible, as well as from the Psalms included in the Book of Common Prayer. The oratorio has become an important part of the Christmas season, and is often performed during the Advent and Christmas period.