Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
WINONA LAKE - For its third outing, the Warsaw Symphony Orchestra launches a new tradition.
Friday, the WSO will host a "Messiah" sing-along.
Songbirds in the audience are invited to lend their voices to the Grace College Symphonic Choir while the orchestra plays. The less-rehearsed can rest while a number of vocal soloists perform.
The concert will be in Rodeheaver Auditorium Friday beginning at 7:30 p.m.
"I think George Frideric Handel's 'Messiah' is the most incredible piece of music of all time," said WOS conductor Dr. Patrick Kavanaugh. "The piece is literally the most popular and frequently performed piece of music ever written in the English language."
Kavanaugh is the Grace College Music Department chairman, Masterworks Festival artistic director and the Christian Performing Artists' Fellowship executive director.
A "Messiah" sing-along is an annual tradition in many cities in the U.S., England and Australia. It is a favorite of English-speaking audiences.
People who want to sing along should bring a score, if they own one. Scores also will be provided for the entire "Christmas portion" of the "Messiah," plus the Hallelujah Chorus.
"You don't have to sing," Kavanaugh said. "We hope a lot of families come out. Kids begin to look forward to it year after year."
The WSO launched its first season in October with an ambitious program. Their second concert was performed in November. Kavanaugh is proud of the group and said they'll be ready for the Mozart arrangement of "Messiah."
"It's fun and games for an orchestra. The audience actually becomes the choir. It's a lot of fun for everyone."
The performance is free; an offering will be taken to help defer expenses.
For more information, call 574-267-5973.
