Messiah returns to MVNU on Dec. 3

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — Mount Vernon Nazarene University will present the 55^th annual performance of G. F. Handel’s “Messiah” on Sunday, Dec. 3, at 7 p.m., in the R.R. Hodges Chapel/Auditorium on the MVNU campus.

This year’s presentation will be performed by the MVNU Choral Union, faculty and guest soloists and a chamber orchestra. The featured soloists are Rhonda Rom, MVNU music adjunct and Worship Director at Peace United Methodist Church in Pickerington, Ohio; Carolyn Redman, 1989 MVNU music alumna, classical performer, and voice faculty at Denison University; Tyler Skidmore, 2004 MVNU music alumnus, music specialist with the Medina, Ohio, City School District and frequent area vocalist. Returning for his 25^th year as bass soloist is David Templeton, Associate Professor of Voice and Head of the Voice Area at The College of Charleston, Charleston, South Carolina. John Packard, MVNU Music Department Chair, and Dr. Isaac Winland, director of bands at Hiram College and former MVNU music adjunct, will assist on trumpet. Jennifer Bell will return as the harpsichordist and Sharon Blaydes is the concertmaster.

The 140-voice Choral Union includes the combined choirs of MVNU as well as faculty, staff, alumni and community singers. Conducting the performance will be Dr. Robert Tocheff, 1972 alumnus, Professor of Music in the MVNU Music Department.

Tickets are $10 per person.  Children through high school age are free. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance at www.mvnu.edu/music. 

SUPPORT “MESSIAH”

MVNU is celebrating its 50^th offering of Handel’s “Messiah” to the central Ohio community in 2023. The 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 www.mvnu.edu/givenow.  Designate your gift for “music” or “Messiah.”  For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Dr. Packard at John.Packard@mvnu.edu or Dr. Tocheff at Bob.Tocheff@mvnu.edu. 

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