Handel’s Messiah to be performed in Parksville by Oceanside Concert Choir

Oceanside Concert Choir will perform ‘Messiah’ by George Frideric Handel on Dec. 7 at Knox United Church in Parksville. The performance presented by Oceanside Music Association will feature soloists Michael MacKinnon (baritone), Adam Dyjach, (tenor), Shanté Van Horlick (mezzo soprano) and Andrea Rodall (soprano), as well as the Nanaimo Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Karl Rainer, according to a news release by Oceanside Music Association. They will be joined by guest trumpet players Mark D’Angelo and David Stewart. Oceanside Concert Choir Music Director Ann Barber-Becqué will be conducting. ‘Messiah’ has become a musical tradition unparalleled in the English-speaking world. “Its popularity dates back almost to when it was first performed in Dublin in 1742,” said musical director Ann Barber-Becqué. “It is the most requested piece of music by choir members, and it always draws a large audience when we perform it.” Barber-Becqué said ‘Messiah’ has everything. Dramatic and exciting musical passages based on familiar Biblical texts, achingly tender arias performed by soloists and joyous choruses, three of which the audience is invited sing along with. She added that the choir is excited this year to be joined by two professional musicians performing the trumpet accompaniment and solo. D’Angelo is the Principal Trumpet with the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra. He also plays trumpet with the Vancouver Island Symphony and teaches music at Capilano College. Stewart is well-known in the community having taught music at Kwalikum Secondary School for more than 25 years before retiring from teaching. He is frequently seen performing the ‘Last Post’ on Remembrance Day and is a member of the Arrowsmith Big Band. Handel’s ‘Messiah’ opens in dramatic fashion with the birth of Jesus being announced by angels. The scene shifts to his ministry among the Jews, his suffering, death and resurrection. This is followed by the spread of his message to the world. The choral work concludes with thanksgiving and the promise of a heavenly afterlife. The concert starts at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 and are available online at www.oceanside-music.ca or with cash at Fireside Books in Parksville and Edge Outdoors in Qualicum Beach. Unsold tickets will be available at the door through cash and debit/credit card. For more information visit www.oceanside-music.ca or call 250-594-4755.