Each year in early December, the First Congregational Church in Old Greenwich creates a true community musical event for local singers and music lovers with the First Church Festival Chorus to present the Christmas portion of Handel’s Messiah.
This year’s performance will be held at the church Meetinghouse on Saturday, December 10, at 4:00 pm. But the fun begins for the singers on Monday evening, December 5, at 7:30 pm, with a no-audition rehearsal; an additional dress rehearsal with the orchestra is scheduled for Wednesday evening, December 7, also at 7:30pm.
“Everyone who has some choral experience is welcome to join this special Festival Chorus,” said Dr. Craig Symons, Minister of Music at First Church.
“We want everyone who loves to sing to experience the joy of performing this great holiday piece with the First Church Chamber Orchestra and the First Church Festival Chorus. As COVID is still in our midst, masks are optional for everyone, performer or audience member.”
While community participation is central to the event, the performance will be anchored by an illustrious set of professional soloists, including Mary McCue, soprano, Linnea Conley, mezzo soprano, Austin Turner, tenor, and Kevin Bailey, bass.
Singers interested in joining the Festival Chorus should come to the Monday rehearsal or contact Craig Symons, [email protected].
The performance is open to the public and a freewill offering will be received, with suggested $20 donation.