Washington, DC, November 24, 2008
Cathedral’s Messiah Unique in its Authenticity
Back to Press Releases »Unlike most American venues billing Handel’s holiday classic, the Cathedral’s performance features the voices of both children and adults, much like the first performance of Messiah in 1742 when it was sung by a chorus of men and boys. The Combined Choirs of Washington National Cathedral includes senior choristers from the youth choirs along with 18 men.
The December 5 and 7 performances will be conducted by Cathedral Music Director Michael McCarthy, founder and former director of the London, England Oratory Schola. McCarthy directed the famed Schola in recordings for films including Sleepy Hollow, The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter.
Internationally acclaimed soloists specializing in early music performance join the concert: Elizabeth Weigle, soprano; Yvette Smith, alto; Rufus Müller, tenor and Nathan Berg, bass. The presentation also features a Baroque orchestra, including a portative organ, harpsichord, period string section, trumpets, tympani, oboes and bassoon, allowing for a refined, intimate and authentic sound.
The Cathedral offers a special spiritual setting for the performance. Optimum sound is heard mid-nave, while the front nave and balconies provide a view of the unique instruments and singers.
Media are welcome to film or tape the Wednesday, December 3 rehearsal. Please call if interested.
Tickets prices range from $20–$80; Tickets available online at http://tickets.cathedral.org or call the Cathedral Box Office at 1 (877) 537-2228. (Press seating available)
SOURCE: Washington National Cathedral