By Dean Poling
The Valdosta Daily Times — VALDOSTA — Three churches and the Valdosta Symphony Chorus have teamed again to present the annual holiday tradition of performing the Christmas portion of George Frideric Handel’s classic “Messiah.”
This year, the performance is joined by guest choir, Abraham Baldwin Chamber Singers.
Several years ago, David Johnson, director of Trinity Presbyterian Church choir, and Marti Schert, director of First Christian Church choir, wished to revive the tradition of making Handel’s “Messiah” part of local Christmas celebrations. Several decades ago, it wasn’t unusual for several churches to present the “Messiah” during the holidays.
Yet, during a period of a couple of decades, the tradition ended, with little to no performances of Handel’s classic.
Initially, First Christian and Trinity Presbyterian revived “Messiah” with partnered concerts before being joined by the Valdosta Symphony Chorus and St. John Catholic Church.
The concert presents Part I and portions of Part II of Handel’s “Messiah.” The concert has traditionally used the New Novello Choral Edition of “Messiah” edited by Watkins Shaw, who offers a well-researched version of what he believes has essential variants to the original Handel composition. And his edition also comes after studying Handel’s original manuscripts.
The churches are scheduled to present the “Christmas” portion of the composition. Though “Messiah” is often viewed as a seasonal Christmas piece, given the birth of Jesus in the first part, or “first act,” as Handel referred to his compositions’ movements, it may have been intended more as an Easter piece given the drama of the second act.
Handel debuted “Messiah” for an Eastertime/ spring audience in April of 1742. Yet, it became a favorite for audiences at Christmas through the decades.
At one time, the churches took turns hosting the performances. For the past few years, St. John’s has hosted the performance.
While there is no admission charged for this public concert, donations will be accepted to benefit Habitat for Humanity, Johnson said.
Messiah
Trinity Presbyterian Church, First Christian Church, St. John Catholic Church and Valdosta Symphony Chorus present “Messiah.”
When: 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29.
Where: St. John Catholic Church, 800 Gornto Road.
Admission: Free. Donations accepted for Habitat for Humanity.
