The Guelph Chamber Choir and Western University Singers present Mendelssohn’s Elijah with a period orchestra at the River Run Centre on March 22 at 8pm.
From its first performances in 1846, Elijah was hailed as the greatest oratorio since Handel’s Messiah. The epic story is told with imposing grandeur through inspired orchestration, beautiful arias, dramaticrecitatives, and uplifting choruses, officials say.
“I am thrilled to be bringing together my two major choirs along with an orchestra of period instrumentalists to approach Elijah with a fresh eye,” said conductor Gerald Neufeld.
“As always we will strive to create beauty by keeping text and meaning at the forefront.”
Four Canadian soloists join the choir and a select ensemble of instrumental specialists.
Daniel Lichti is Elijah, one of Canada’s finest bass-baritones in a beloved signature role. He is joined by soprano Anne Marie Ramos, a graduate of vocal programs of Western University and the University of Toronto.
Alto Sophie Roland is chair of music performance at Western University.
Rounding out the quartet is the choir’s own tenor Chris Fischer, a well-known and popular voice with local audiences.
Join officials for a “podium talk” at 7pm to discuss Elijah and the struggle between polytheism and monotheism in the history of the Middle East.
Single tickets are now available for $30 each or four for $100. Young adults (30 and under) are $10 and $5 for youth with eyeGO. Tickets are still available by calling 519-763-3000 or online at www.riverrun.ca. Visit www.guelphchamberchoir.ca or call 519-836-5103 for more information.
