Landmark performance to bring rare choral work back to Geelong

MUSIC at the Basilica will present its most ambitious project to date next week, staging a full performance of Handel’s Messiah.

The concert, to be held on Sunday, December 7 at 4pm, marks the first time the work has been performed in Geelong by local musicians in more than 30 years.

Two highly regarded community choirs – the Windfire Choir and the Geelong Chorale – will unite to perform the arrangement, led by conductor Joseph Hie.

The performance will feature a distinguished line-up of soloists, including Sun Aria winners Lee Abrahmsen and Austin Haynes, tenor Robert Macfarlane and bass

Manfred Pohlenz.

Music at the Basilica secretary Jane Bashiruddin said Messiah is one of the most enduring and beloved works in the Western choral tradition.

“Composed in 1741, in a remarkably short span of just 24 days, [Messiah] represents the pinnacle of George Frideric Handel’s genius for dramatic expression, melodic invention and spiritual depth,” she said.

The Windfire Choir and the Geelong Chorale will unite next week to perform Handel’s Messiah, the Music at the Basilica’s most ambitious project to date. Photo: SUPPLIED

“Although often associated with Christmas, Messiah actually spans the entire Christian story of redemption – from prophecy and Christ’s birth, through his suffering, death and resurrection to the promise of eternal life.”

Bashiruddin said the text, compiled by Charles Jennens from the King James Bible and the Book of Common Prayer, creates a compelling narrative arc through the work’s three parts.

“Part one reflects the joyous anticipation of the Messiah’s coming, featuring some of the work’s most radiant music, such as For Unto us a Child is Born.

“Part two moves into the Passion and resurrection, culminating in the triumphant Hallelujah chorus, perhaps the most famous choral movement ever written.

“Part three turns contemplative, exploring themes of faith, resurrection and the ultimate victory over death, concluding with the majestic Worthy is the Lamb and a resounding Amen.”

Messiah will be performed at the Basilica of St Mary of the Angels at 136 Yarra Street in Geelong.

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