It was not until the middle of the 19th Century that the Choir of St Mary Redcliffe was re-formed, yet it became quickly known for its quality and dedication to the music of the church.

Part of the Handel Window was erected to his memory one hundred years after his death. It contains words and music from the oratorio Messiah and is situated above the memorial to his friend Thomas Broughton, Vicar of the Parish

There was not only a revival of architecture during the 18th century at St Mary Redcliffe; music and poetry also flourished. Since the reformation the spoken word had reigned supreme with little music being heard in the church. This changed dramatically under the European influence of the Hanoverian kings of Britain. Handel, who composed many works as well as the oratorio Messiah, would often flee his debtors in London to spend time with his friend Thomas Broughton, Vicar of St Mary Redcliffe. Almost certainly Handel, Samuel Wesley and his son, Samuel Sebastian, played the Harris and Byfield organ, some parts of which are preserved in the present organ. This instrument, built by the organ builders Harrison and Harrison between 1911 and 1912, is considered by many to be one of the finest and most characteristic of their work

Information regarding the present Choir and the Organ are available on seperate pages. Click either for the link.