literally ΓÇ£praise JehovahΓÇ¥. The Latin form is ΓÇ£alleluiaΓÇ¥. Both forms are common as a refrain in hymns and other christian church music. The opening chords of HandelΓÇÖs Hallelujah Chorus, in his oratorio Messiah, caused King George II to rise to his feet at its first London performance in the Covent Garden Theatre. The whole audience followed suit, and stayed standing throughout the Chorus. This became a tradition in the U.K which is still maintained today.
