Which recording of Handel's Messiah should I get?

These are some of the best recordings, according to many critics:

On period instruments:

Marshall, Robbin, Brett, Rolfe Johnson, Hale. Monteverdi Choir, English Baroque Soloists, John Eliot Gardiner.

Kirkby, Watkinson, Elliot, Thomas. Academy of Ancient Music Choir and Orchestra, Cristopher Hogwood.

Gale, Lipovsek, Hollweg, Kenney. Stockholm Chamber Choir. Vienna Concentus Musicus, Nikolaus Harnoncourt.

On modern instruments:

Harwood, Baker, Esswood, Tear. Ambrosian Singers. English Chamber Orchestra, Charles Mackerras.

Harper, Watts, Wakefield, Shirley-Quirk. London Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Colin Davis.

Erickson, McNair, Hodgson, Humphrey, Stilwell. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Robert Shaw.

This is so much a matter of personal taste. However, the link below lists the accepted 'classic' recordings of Handel's masterpiece.

Enjoy!

You need to consider whether you want one with a modern orchestra, large choir and perhaps the Mozart additions (yes, he did edit Messiah!) or one with 'authentic' instruments, a small choir, perhaps a counter tenor or male alto. Until you have sorted these parameters it is difficult to make a recommendation.

the Robert Shaw recording is marvellous

the CD is "Let Is Snow Baby, Let It Reindeer" by Relient K. i think it's the best version because it's kindof a punk rock version.

You usually can't go wrong with the "local choir" down the hill from where you teach ;) I've got a recording of "the greatest hits" from The Messiah by them and it's pretty good.

LATER: My only guess is that the thumbs downs are from people who don't realize that the "local choir" for me and Dr Shorty is the Mormon Tabernacle Choir ;)