ELORA – From the gentle overture to the magnificent and uplifting Hallelujah chorus, Handel’s iconic Messiah is a cherished Christmas tradition that has inspired audiences for nearly 300 years.
Like so many traditions, Handel’s baroque master piece is not without myth and intrigue.
Legend has it that, at a royal performance King George II leapt to his feet during the chorus – the audience followed suit, not wanting to sit when the king was standing, thus creating a time honoured tradition that continues to this day, organizers say.
Some say that the king was so moved by the music that he got to his feet while others suggest it was merely a political statement signaling that the monarchy was not above God.
However, according to various historians, there is no truth to this story.
In fact there is no evidence King George II was even in attendance.
Most historical accounts estimate that Handel wrote the entire 259 page score in only 24 days with remarkably few errors – an incredible feat given there are almost a half million notes, organizers state.
This year, The Elora Singers offer their first performance of Messiah conducted by artistic director Mark Vuorinen.
Vuorinen has conducted dozens of Messiah performances over the years and holds true to the performance practices from Handel’s day, utilizing a chamber choir with small orchestra performing in Baroque period style.
For this unique performance, all the solo arias are shared among members of The Elora Singers, affirming that this professional choir is made up of some of the best voices in the country.
The performance will start at 8pm on Dec. 1 at St. Joseph Church in Fergus.
The show will be performed as a ‘candlelight Messiah.’
To purchase tickets visit www.elorasingers.ca, call 1-519-846-0331 or go to 9 Mill Street East in Elora.
