The Messiah at St Matthew's Church

Stunning Handel’s Messiah

Four outstanding guest soloists and a professional orchestra will join our combined choirs for this year’s pre-Christmas presentation of George Frideric Handel’s joyous Messiah oratorio. Conducted by our director of Music Kirkland Adsett, the Men and Boys’ and Women and Girls’ choirs will be bolstered by tenor James McLean, baritone Geoffrey Sirett, mezzo-soprano Lydia Piehl and soprano Jennifer Taverner.

Two performances will be held: Saturday, Nov. 22 at 7pm and a Sunday matinée Nov. 23 at 2pm. This will be the first year for a matinée concert, which Rev. Canon Pat Johnston hopes will appeal particularly to young families and seniors. “The strong lineup of soloists will give a memorable launch to the Christmas season in the intimate setting of a candlelit church,” she says.

The St. Matthew’s performances will again include a cash wine and beer bar open before the start and during intermission. Tracy Arnett Realty Ltd. is sponsoring the wine bar and Robertson Martin Architects Inc. is the presenting sponsor. Tickets for the concerts may be purchased at the church office and after most Sunday 10 am services. They can also be bought online at www.stmatthewsottawa.ca. Reserved seating is adults $35, students $25. Unreserved seating is adults $25, students $15. An additional $5 will be charged for tickets purchased at the door.

Tickets will also be available at Compact Music stores on Bank St. and at CD Warehouse outlets.