A phenomenal Christmas tradition, George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah” is gracing the stage and audience of Abravanel Hall with the Utah Symphony over Thanksgiving weekend. Not only will Handel’s music be performed with a full orchestra and a chamber choir, but the event is a special “sing-in” celebration, which means audience members are invited — and even encouraged to bring their own music and sing along.
“This is the only symphony concert that I know of where the audience can actively participate,” said Eric Schmidt, conductor of the event and graduate of the U. “You can be an audience member and a performer. Or if that isn’t your thing, you can just sit back and listen and watch.”
Written in 1741, Handel wrote “Messiah” as an oratorio, a large orchestral music piece focusing on a religious theme. The theme of Handel’s piece is the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, deemed Savior or Messiah of the world within Judeo-Christian religions. Much of the actual text within the piece is drawn from the Bible itself.
Of course, you need not be religious in order to enjoy this powerful piece of music. “Messiah” is a two hour concerto with delightfully technical musical features and engaging sounds.
“If you’ve never been to the symphony, go to this concert. There are so many different styles and it is very engaging. It’s a great way to begin your symphony experience or continue it,” said Schmidt.
Barlow Bradford, director of choral activities at the School of Music, said, “This is one of the only times you don’t have to be in the actual choir to participate.” He added that, considering everyone at the performance, there will probably be 2,700 people there total, which is quite the feat.
Now a staple sound for this particular holiday season, much of the music within “Messiah” is recognizable to many, particularly the powerful “Hallelujah Chorus.”
For those who have heard the music and for those entirely unfamiliar with Handel’s composition, the sing-in event is a wonderful way to experience this deeply-rooted societal tradition and celebration.
Zoe Wilks, a junior, expressed her interest in attending. “I think it’ll be very fun,” she said.
Just in time to open up the holiday season post-Thanksgiving, students will enjoy the phenomenal musical talent and vigor of all involved.
Artists involved with the performance include Abigail Rethwisch (soprano), Sarah Coit (mezzo-soprano), Christian Sanders (tenor) and Markel Reed (baritone), Westminster Chamber singers and community choir, and members of the Utah Symphony Chorus.
The chorus will sing from the Barenreiter edition of the score, but audience members may also use the Schirmer score. You can purchase a score before the performance at Abravanel Hall.
The Messiah Sing-In is taking place at Abravanel Hall next weekend, Nov. 26 and 27 at 7:30 pm. Tickets start at $14.