The Denison University Orchestra, Concert Choir, and Chamber Singers will present Handel’s “Messiah” at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5, in Swasey Chapel (200 Chapel Drive). The event is free and open to the public.

The Denison Orchestra is conducted by Andy Carlson, and both Concert Choir and Chamber Singers are directed by Wei Cheng.

“Messiah” was composed in 24 days by George Frideric Handel in the summer of 1741 and premiered in Dublin on Apr. 13, 1742. “Messiah” is Handel's most famous creation and among the most popular works in Western choral literature. It includes the well-known “Hallelujah!” chorus, which concludes the second of the three parts. The work is a presentation of Jesus’ life and its significance according to Christian doctrine. Although the work was conceived for secular theatre and first performed during Lent, it has become common practice since Handel’s death to perform “Messiah” during Advent, the preparatory period of the Christmas season, rather than in Lent or at Easter.

For more information, contact 740-587-6220 or visit www.denison.edu.

Calendar Listing:

CALENDAR LISTING: Denison University, Granville — The Denison University Orchestra, Concert Choir, and Chamber Singers will present Handel’s “Messiah” at 8 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 5, in Swasey Chapel (200 Chapel Drive). Free and open to the public; for more information, contact 740-587-6220 or visit www.denison.edu.

About Denison:

Denison University, founded in 1831, is an independent, residential liberal arts institution located in Granville, Ohio. A highly selective college enrolling 2,100 full-time undergraduate students from all 50 states and dozens of foreign countries, Denison is a place where innovative faculty and motivated students collaborate in rigorous scholarship, civic engagement and the cultivation of independent thinking.

For press inquiries:

Name

Barbara Stambaugh

Position Title

Director, Media Relations

Primary Email

stambaughb@denison.edu

Business Phone

(740) 587-8575