Each year, because of its enduring popularity, Handel’s Messiah is sung throughout the world, at different venues, during the Christmas season. Locally, the National Chorale sponsors the sing-in at Avery Fisher Hall in Lincoln Center. This year the New York sing-in will be held at Avery Fisher on December 19th at 8PM. Traditionally, everyone brings his/her own score and sings (minimally) the Christmas portion of this great work. Soloists are often professional singers engaged to perform the challenging arias to an appreciative audience. Often, there are several conductors, each bringing a unique perspective to the selection that is being performed. Perhaps a discussion of musical expectations and anticipated nuances may occur prior to the performance of the choral selection. Sometimes, a brief rehearsal may occur of a segment prior to full performance, to ensure understanding.
This year’s second annual North Jersey Messiah Sing-In will be held at Bethlehem Church on December 20th at 7PM. The choruses will be led by Bill Briggs, Joe Mello, and Bud Beavers. The three conductors have spent a majority of their careers as educators in the North Jersey area, spreading the joy of performing challenging music, and the happiness that comes with a great performance!
Soloists this year will be students. For many, it will be their first performance….nothing like an experienced, appreciative, mature, and knowledgeable audience to encourage them!
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