Vancouver Bach Choir Presents the Epic Embodiment of Holiday Jubilation: G.F. Handel's MESSIAH

Vancouver Bach Choir presents the divine harmonies, resounding orchestrations, and sublime arias of Handel's Messiah, December 12, 2015, 8pm at The Orpheum. Under the baton of Music Director Leslie Dala, an ensemble of celebrated Canadian soloists and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra join the choir to infuse brilliant new light and life into this magnificent gem - featuring the iconic, immortal Hallelujah chorus.

"In the 85-year history of the Vancouver Bach Choir, no single work has been more performed - or more well-loved - than Handel's Messiah," says Leslie Dala, Music Director of the choir. "This masterpiece is the very embodiment of holiday spirit; sharing the story of Christ's life and death through joyful, profound music that transcends time and faith - touching the hearts of all who hear it."

The text of Handel's Messiah is taken entirely from the Bible and tells the story of Jesus Christ. Expressed in three parts, the sacred tale begins with the virgin birth and journeys through the events of Christ's life and death, concluding with the resurrection. This significant narrative, coupled with the incredible talents of the Vancouver Bach Choir and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, come together to create an inspirational and intensely moving performance experience.

The evening features internationally-renowned soprano Simone Osborne, who most recently thrilled local audiences with a critically-acclaimed performance in Vancouver Opera's Rigoletto. The occasion marks Osborne's first ever performance of Handel's glorious soprano part, as she shares the stage with an array of illustrious fellow soloists, including mezzo-soprano Susan Platts, tenor Andrew Haji, and baritone Daniel Okulitch.

Messiah first premiered in Dublin, Ireland on April 13, 1742. Part of Handel's purpose in creating the splendid oratorio was to engage and educate audiences on the writings of the bible at a time when illiteracy was common and printed Bibles were rare. Already a well-established composer at the time, Handel intended Messiah as an Easter concert. However, over the years, the performance of his composition has been adopted as a beloved tradition observed during the holiday season. Today, its famed Hallelujah Chorus remains instantly recognizable and cherished the world over.

Handel was born in Germany in 1685. His musical prowess was discovered at the early age of 11, and by 18 he had completed his first composition, the opera Almira. For the duration of his career, Handel worked as a musician and composer across Europe before eventually settling in London. Messiah is Handel's most successful and long-lasting work, largely considered the greatest piece of Christian music ever written.

Tickets start at $29 and can be purchased online at vancouverbachchoir.com or by phone: 604-696-4290

The Vancouver Bach Choir (VBC), celebrating its 85th anniversary season, is an award-winning symphonic choir committed to offering vibrant and culturally diverse choral experiences to its audiences.

As one of the largest choral organizations in Canada, the Vancouver Bach Choir explores a wide range of repertoire from the past to the present with passion and commitment. Through its concerts presented at the magnificent Orpheum Theatre, the VBC continues to meet its mandate of commissioning and performing works by Canadian composers and presenting the world's favourite symphonic choral works.

Over the past eight decades, the choir has performed with numerous world-class musicians. Currently under the baton of Maestro Leslie Dala, the VBC continues its mission and tradition to share the beauty of choral music with local, national, and international communities.

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