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Mount Vernon Nazarene University will continue a longstanding holiday tradition later this month with its 58th annual performance of George Frideric Handel’s Messiah.
The concert is scheduled for Sunday, November 22, at 7 p.m. in the R.R. Hodges Chapel-Auditorium and Fine Arts Center on the MVNU campus.
This year’s performance will feature a 140-voice Choral Union, bringing together university choirs, faculty, staff, alumni and community singers, accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Dr. Robert Tocheff, a 1972 MVNU graduate and Professor Emeritus of Music, will conduct the performance for the 36th year.
The featured soloists include soprano Kendra Gibbs, a 2012 graduate; mezzo-soprano Carolyn Redman, a 1989 graduate; tenor Tyler Skidmore, a 2004 graduate; and returning bass soloist David Templeton, who is performing for the 29th year.
Composed in 1741, Messiah is one of the world’s most frequently performed choral works. The oratorio is drawn entirely from scripture and tells the story of the prophecy and coming of the Messiah, his suffering and sacrifice, and the promise of redemption and eternal life.
Audiences will hear familiar selections including “Comfort Ye,” “I Know That My Redeemer Liveth” and the iconic “Hallelujah” Chorus.
Tocheff says one of the highlights comes when he turns to conduct the audience during the “Hallelujah” Chorus, describing the moment as an unforgettable expression of worship.
Tickets are $10 per person, while children through high school age are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance at mvnu.edu/messiah.
MVNU is also seeking alumni and business sponsors to help support the annual performance and the university’s Music Department. More information is available at mvnu.edu/give-music.
