What would the Christmas season be with the Messiah?
Handel’s oratorio doesn’t conclude until after it has dealt with the Resurrection but the musical work is still a great favourite during the holidays.
The Cowichan Consort orchestra and choir are performing it Saturday, Dec. 3 at the Christian Reformed Church in Duncan starting at 7:30 p.m.
Robert Mari will conduct the musicians and the already-large Consort Choir will be joined by singers from the Malaspina Choir from Nanaimo, meaning music lovers can feel the thrill of 80 voices performing.
Singing the well-known solos will be Gary Relyea, bass; Monica Orso, soprano; Kaden Forsberg, tenor; and Anna Tamm-Relyea, mezzo-soprano.
Written by Handel in 24 days, and premiered in 1742, The Messiah has been a hit around the world.
Tickets are $15 for adults, and $10 for students under age 17.
Get them at Volume One Bookstore, from members, and at the door.
A historical note: when the King of England (Handel’s employer) heard the Hallelujah chorus, he was so moved by the power of the music that he stood up.
The audience couldn’t remain seated when the king was standing so they stood up, too.
To this day, audiences all over the world keep this tradition, rising out of their seats to stand for this most beloved chorus.
A note for the audience: this is not a sing-along Messiah this year, so sit back and enjoy the great performance.