“The Messiah” Is Coming
   By Bonnie Burcham - Copy Edior

“The Messiah” is coming to Carlinville by way of the Blackburn College Choir and the Carlinville Community choir on Saturday Dec. 3 and Sunday Dec. 4, 2005 at 7 p.m. in Clegg Chapel.

The choirs will be singing selections from the Christmas portion of “Handel’s Messiah” and the famous “Hallelujah Chorus” instead of the traditional style of Christmas concert, Vespers.

When asked about the switch from Vespers to the Messiah, Dr. Elizabeth Zobel stated, “There isn’t a particular reason that we’re opting against Vespers. One day Nate Rush came up to me and introduced the idea of combining the Community Choir with Blackburn College Choir and I thought it was a great idea.”

Not only is the Carlinville Community Choir joining the festivities but members of Blackburn faculty and staff have also been asked to participate in this premiere concert.

“I think this is a good way for the Blackburn faculty to relate to their students,” said sophomore baritone, Anthony Bowman.

This piece is a different style of music than the Blackburn College Choir performs on a regular basis. The style is very classical, and the “Messiah” feels like one big song with smaller songs incorporated into it. When members of the choir were asked their opinions their comments reflected similar feelings.

A few people are excited about the challenge that “Messiah” will give to them. “I believe that the ‘Messiah’ is a very challenging piece that is perfect for the college setting,” said Sara Wilder freshman alto. 

“In my opinion it will be difficult, but I like the fact that this piece is a challenge.” Amy Hawk added.

This will be the second concert of the year for Blackburn College Choir. The first will be a coral collage on Nov. 5, 2005.

“I am really psyched that we’re doing the ‘Messiah‘. I really love the score, and I think everyone should come see it” said junior baritone Ron Logsdon.