MVNU carries on annual tradition in 56th presentation of Handel’s Messiah

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — Tradition runs deep at Mount Vernon Nazarene University. From all parts across campus, faculty, staff and students alike embrace the long-held traditions and continue them for the next generation.

That includes the long-standing Christmas tradition of the performance of Handel’s Messiah. MVNU’s Choral Union is pleased to present the 56th annual collaboration, scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024, at 7 p.m. in the R.R. Hodges Chapel/Auditorium.

Dr. Robert Tocheff, who has directed this cherished event for 34 years, will once again lead the MVNU Choral Union. His tenure began in 1991, continuing a legacy that started with the first presentation in the fall of 1968, when excerpts of the Messiah were performed under the direction of Dr. Reuben Rodeheaver.

“The MVNU performance of Handel’s Messiah is very special for many reasons,” said Dr. Tocheff. “The work itself, based on scripture, tells of the God’s enduring love and the prophecy to redeem mankind; then beautifully portrays how the prophesies are fulfilled through the coming of the Messiah Jesus Christ, His life, death and glorious resurrection. God’s redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, of course, speaks to who we are as a Christian university, emphasizing our faith in Jesus, our Messiah.”

For over half a century, the performance of Handel’s Messiah has been a highlight of the Christmas season for the MVNU and the greater Knox County community. The annual event invites participation from community members and alumni alongside students.

One long-time participant, Janice Nielson, reflects on her personal history with the Messiah, both at MVNU and at sister school Eastern Nazarene College.

“My appreciation and love for Handel’s Messiah goes back to my teenage years when my parents made it an important part of the Christmas season,” said Nielson. “Then when I got to Eastern Nazarene College as a student, I had the privilege of singing in it. And then years later when we found ourselves back at ENC on staff, we naturally joined the choir. Fast forward many more years, when my husband and I came to teach at MVNU, we were thrilled to be able to sing once again. The Christmas season is simply not complete without experiencing this masterpiece of Handel’s (Messiah).”

The performance includes a diverse group of voices, combining students, faculty, alumni, and community members.

“It’s an absolute thrill to be able to sing in the Messiah,” said Nielson. “Just to think that I am one of hundreds of thousands of people in the world, who have appreciated this incredible piece of music, written over 250 years ago, is such a privilege and a blessing.”

Tocheff sees the involvement of the community as a very important part of the tradition.

“Involving community singers in our Choral Union is significant because it not only provides a fuller choir to present the work, but it connects MVNU with our Knox County community and beyond,” said Tocheff. “The city of Mount Vernon and Knox County have embraced MVNU from our infancy. Inviting community members to perform in this event is an important way to draw us together even more.

“In addition, the involvement of many of our alumni is another connection that is vital to MVNU. … Music has a special way of uniting people, in this case, through singing about our faith in our Savior, Jesus Christ, our Messiah.”

Tickets for the performance are now on sale for $10. Visit mvnu.edu/music and select “Messiah Tickets.”

SUPPORT MESSIAH

The MVNU Music Department is seeking sponsors, including alumni and businesses, who desire to invest in the future of the Messiah presentation and in the MVNU Music Department. To contribute financially to support this program, please visit http://www.mvnu.edu/give-music. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Dr. John Packard at John.Packard@mvnu.edu or Dr. Tocheff at Bob.Tocheff@mvnu.edu.