By Wendy Watkins
When George Frederic Handel premiered his oratorio “The Messiah” in 1742, he scarcely could have imagined the musical snowball he set in motion. The phenomenal success of his masterwork continues to gain momentum yet today. Widely performed throughout the world, this robust collection of solos, ensembles, and choruses is a Christmas staple in both religious services and secular concert halls. And on Sunday, Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. at the United Methodist Church on Park Street, local residents will have the opportunity to participate in this great tradition.
Historically, one needed to be a trained singer to participate in the performance of this oratorio. Its music is complex, demanding, and requires the stamina of a marathoner when sung in its entirety. Yet despite its rigors, it is music that is so harmonious and compelling, it begs to be sung, trained or untrained voice notwithstanding. And so communities across America began staging their own productions that capitalized on participation over ticket sales. Thus the concept of the Messiah sing-a-long was born and continues to grow in popularity.
Patricia Faulkner, Ruth Wilson Francisco, and Gwen Tanner have teamed up for a second year to help bring the glory of singing to Montezuma Valley in the second annual Messiah Sing-in. Joined by a host of local singers and instrumentalists, ages 9 to 90, they are extending a double invitation to the public: Come and listen; or, come and sing. It’s your choice. Both options are free of charge.
The organizers have assembled an impressive lineup of musicians who will sing the solos and provide the accompaniment. True to the spirit of inclusion, people of all faiths and ages are participating in this ecumenical effort. This year’s soloists will include Gloria Decker, Jim Draper, Clarke Haggard, Randy Jorgenson, Eleanor Kuhl, John Patton, Judy Sadler, Bobby Sitton, Marla Sitton, Jason Smith, Judy Stone, Chris Snyder, and Ruth Wilson Francisco.
A chamber ensemble will accompany all soloists and choral numbers. Strings, trumpet, clarinet and flute, and even a timpani will lend their unique voices to the accompaniment. Joining them will be Joy Steffen on the organ and Brooke Snyder on piano. Gwen Tanner and Ruth Wilson Francisco each will take her turn on the podium as conductor.
There will be a rehearsal with orchestra and soloists on Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Methodist Church at 10. The public may attend the rehearsal.
The day of the performance, Dec. 7, people planning to sing in the chorus should arrive at 5:30.
Choral numbers will include: “And the Glory of the Lord,” “O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings,” “For Unto Us,” “Glory to God,” “Behold the Lamb of God” and the famed “Hallelujah Chorus.” Organizers anticipate the program, which begins at 6 p.m., to last about an hour and 15 minutes.
Scores will be available the day of the performance, but people are encouraged to bring their own if they have them.
So whether you’re a sing-while-you-scrub-in-the-shower type, the next American Idol, or somewhere in between, there’s a spot for you in this community chorus. And for those who simply want to revel in the glory of divinely inspired great music, consider yourself invited. For more information, call Patricia Faulkner at 564-9458.