Christmas Concert 30 November 2019

Messiah
Great Hall, University of Reading
 

HANDEL’S oratorio Messiah is one of the best known and greatest choral masterpieces.  A staple Christmas tradition,  the choir sang confidently throughout, watched their conductor, Paul Burke, and achieved a standing ovation.  

To the delight of the choir, the audience were moved to stand at the beginning of the Hallelujah `chorus, as is the tradition begun by George II.

The soloists, Louise Wayman (soprano), Freya Jacklin-Edward (mezzo soprano), Adrian Green (tenor) and Michael Hickman (bass), were excellent, and clearly enjoyed singing the music.

Kate Bailey led a small orchestra, as prescribed by Handel, which supported the choir well.  The deliciously crisp trumpet solo in 'The Trumpet Shall Sound'  was exceptional and well-timed; giving the choir their leads each time the tune returned.

Handel’s Messiah is a great work that is a joy to sing, to play and to listen to.  Well done SCCS.