MVNU to present 58th annual Handel’s “Messiah”

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — For nearly six decades, the voices of students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members have joined together to proclaim the story of God’s redemption plan through one of classical music’s most enduring works. That legacy continues Sunday, Nov. 22, when Mount Vernon Nazarene University presents its 58th annual performance of G.F. Handel’s “Messiah” at 7 p.m. in the R.R. Hodges Chapel/Auditorium.

The “Messiah” brings the MVNU community and central Ohio together for an evening that is as much an expression of faith as it is a celebration of music. The 150-voice Choral Union combines MVNU’s choirs with faculty, staff, alumni and community singers, accompanied by a chamber orchestra, and features alumni soloists mezzo-soprano Carolyn Redman ’89, soprano Kendra Gibbs ’12, tenor Tyler Skidmore ’04, and returning guest bass David Templeton.

For Dr. Robert Tocheff, a 1972 MVNU alumnus and Professor Emeritus of Music, the event remains deeply meaningful. This year marks his 36th year conducting “Messiah.”

“One of the many highlights is when, midway through the Hallelujah Chorus, I turn to conduct the audience and experience this unforgettable expression of worship of our King of Kings and Lord of Lords,” Tocheff said.

From the orchestra’s opening notes to the familiar ‘Hallelujah Chorus,’ to the resounding ‘Amen,’ the evening has become a treasured custom for generations of MVNU students, alumni and community members. The annual presentation also serves to usher in the Christmas season, inviting the audience to pause, reflect and celebrate the message, and to rejoice in the redemptive power of Christ’s resurrection.

Community members interested in singing in this year’s concert are invited to contact Dr. Tocheff at Bob.Tocheff@mvnu.edu about an audition or recommendation.

Tickets are $10 per person, with children through high school age admitted free. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance at www.mvnu.edu/messiah.

WANT TO JOIN THE CHORUS?
We’d love to have you! Rehearsals kick off Wednesday, Sept. 23, from 4:40–5:40 p.m. in Nease Rehearsal Hall (R.R. Hodges Chapel/Fine Arts Building). Community members interested in singing should reach out to Dr. Tocheff at bob.tocheff@mvnu.edu about an audition or recommendation — we’d be thrilled to have you be part of this special tradition.

SUPPORT THE TRADITION
MVNU is seeking sponsors, including alumni and businesses, who want to help sustain the “Messiah” tradition and support the MVNU Music Department. To contribute financially, visit http://www.mvnu.edu/give-music. For information about sponsorship opportunities, contact Dr. John Packard at John.Packard@mvnu.edu or Dr. Tocheff at Bob.Tocheff@mvnu.edu.

For more information, visit www.mvnu.edu/messiah or contact Tressa Daley at 740-397-9000, ext. 3000.