In "Every Valley," Charles King tells the story behind Handel's "Messiah," from its turbulent beginnings to its beloved present.

Since its premiere in 1742, George Frideric Handel's 3.5-hour oratorio for chorus, soloists and orchestra has become a timeless message of hope, and a Christmas tradition.

The "Hallelujah Chorus" rang out in the midst of hopelessness. During World War II, the Marion Civic Chorus formed to present "Handel’s Messiah" annually.