‘Messiah’ rings in holiday season

The spirit of joy within Handel’s ‘Messiah’ rings in the holiday season, thanks to Marlborough vocalists and musicians bringing their talents together.

Blenheim Choral and Marlborough Civic Orchestra will perform the famed Baroque oratorio at Nativity Church on December 5 and 6, bringing both a Christmas classic to life and ringing in the holiday season.

“Handel’s ‘Messiah’ is one of the most loved and most performed choral works - many people feel it wouldn’t be Christmas without experiencing a performance of Messiah”, says Blenheim Choral’s Elaine Harmer.

“It details the whole story of the coming of the Messiah, from the ancient prophecies, through to the Nativity, the pathos and tragedy of the Crucifixion at Easter to the triumph of a joyous future but it radiates with such joy and hope, it is always associated with Christmas”.

Elaine says Blenheim Choral’s Musical Director and “truly inspirational figure” Robert Tucker has pulled on many local and national connections for the show.

“Blenheim is blessed with a wealth of talent, and three of the soloists - Islay Leov, Rosie McAllister, and David Moseley – grew up here.

“The organist is the brilliant Jonathan Berkahn, and we are joined by special guests from Marlborough Civic Orchestra, Marlborough District Brass Band, and Voices New Zealand, who will provide some solos”.

A highlight for Elaine is the ‘Hallelujah’ Chorus, with an over 250-year tradition of having everyone stand while it is performed.

“Initially debuted in Dublin in 1742, its first performance in London was before King George II, in 1743.

“Nobody knows exactly why, but the King stood up during the singing of the Hallelujah Chorus and of course, it was etiquette for the audience to follow the king’s example, so everybody stood.

“This is such a vibrant and mighty chorus that it still seems fitting to stand as it is sung, and   so a tradition began and remains to this day, and people still look forward to standing and singing the Hallelujah Chorus”.

Blenheim Choral’s “Handel’s Messiah” concerts take to Nativity Church on Friday 5 December at 7 pm and Saturday 6 December at 2pm. Tickets available online here and ASB Theatre.