Handel’s ‘Messiah’ at BUMC

On Sunday, April 15, at 4 p.m., the Chancel Choir of Boone United Methodist Church will present Handel’s “Messiah,” with guest soloists and members of the Appalachian Symphony.

“Messiah” was first performed in Dublin in April 1741. That year, Charles Jennens wrote a friend that he had given Handel a “Scripture Collection” that he hoped Handel would set to music and perform. Handel composed the work in just 24 days.

In the U.S., this work is usually associated with Christmas (although only one section of the work contains texts relating to the birth of Jesus). “Messiah” was first performed as a charity fundraiser, benefiting a hospital and prison in Dublin. The work is in three sections – Part 1: Prophecies and texts relating to the birth of Jesus; Part 2: Texts that relate to the Passion, Resurrection and Second Coming of Christ; and Part 3: Jesus as savior.

Handel uses “text painting” frequently throughout the oratorio (audiences will hear many examples of text painting through the choruses and solos). “Messiah” was considered to be a “secular work” in 1741, drawing on elements of staged English opera.

The April 15 performance will feature some of the area’s best vocal performers, featuring three members of the voice faculty from Appalachian State University, including Priscilla Porterfield, Mary Gayle Greene and Randall Outland. It also features soprano Tara Nixon and baritone Tony Deaton. Admission is free.

Boone United Methodist Church is located at 471 New Market Blvd. For more information, call (828) 264-6090.