Proudly belt it at the DIY Messiah

You don’t have to be an accomplished singer (or even a Christian) to tackle this beloved Baroque oratorio. I’m neither, but since high school, I’ve enjoyed adding my voice to the orchestra and Handel’s many choruses. Here’s how to make the most of this annual tradition.

1. Score tickets. The roughly 3,000 free tickets disappear quickly for this popular event, December 21 and 22 at the Harris Theater (205 E Randolph St, 312-334-7777). Arrive two hours prior to show time to line up for turnback tickets.

2. Practice. You’ll never hit all those 16th notes otherwise! If you don’t already own the score, invest $8 in the G. Schirmer edition (available online or at music shops) and sing along at home with a recording of Messiah highlights. Need more help? Visit the site of event sponsor International Music Foundation for deets on snagging a CD of one specific vocal part ($18). Altos, tenors and basses: No fair singing the sopranos’s melody an octave or three lower.

3. Find experienced singers. On concert night, head to your vocal section and ask around: Have your neighbors sung “And the Glory of the Lord” before? With experience beside you—or, even better, behind you—you’ll belt out “Hallelujah!” with confidence.