Asheville Symphony Brings Holiday Spirit with Handel’s *Messiah*
Asheville is all set to embrace the magic of the holiday season with the Asheville Symphony’s upcoming performances of George Frideric Handel’s iconic oratorio, *Messiah*. Mark your calendars for Friday, November 22 at 8 p.m. and Saturday, November 23 at both 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. This beloved classic has become a cherished Christmas tradition for classical music lovers around the world, and this year, it’s happening at the beautiful First Baptist Church of Asheville.
A Festive Tradition
Handel composed *Messiah* in a mere 24 days, back in 1741, and it quickly became renowned for its powerful music and uplifting message. Originally performed during Easter, this stunning work has made a home for itself in the Christmas repertoire since the 1960s. As we gather for these special performances, attendees will be enveloped in the rich harmonies and inspiring lyrics that celebrate hope and faith.
Meet the Soloists
This year’s concert will feature a remarkable lineup of soloists, each bringing their own unique flair and international acclaim to the stage. They include:
- Soprano Jessica Beebe – A Philadelphia native, she is part of the GRAMMY-winning ensemble, The Crossing, and has performed with other prestigious groups like Seraphic Fire. Her repertoire stretches across four centuries, from Renaissance classics to contemporary opera.
- Alto Timothy Parsons – Known for his captivating countertenor voice and choral conducting skills, Parsons has graced the stages of Carnegie Hall and London’s St John’s Smith Square. He has also toured performing Handel’s oratorios with The English Concert.
- Tenor Brian Giebler – Giebler has gained notoriety for his debut solo album, *A Lad’s Love*, leading to a GRAMMY nomination. He has performed extensively, sharing stages with orchestras nationwide and captivating audiences at various music festivals.
- Bass Jonathan Woody – An accomplished chamber musician, Woody performs regularly with orchestras like Bach Collegium San Diego. He has also served as an artistic advisor to the Portland Baroque Orchestra.
A Community Outreach Effort
In light of the recent challenges faced by the Asheville community due to Hurricane Helene, the Asheville Symphony is making efforts to turn these performances into a significant outreach event. The executive director, Daniel Crupi, stated, “Amid the unimaginable challenges our community has faced, we find ourselves reminded of the resilience and strength that define Asheville.” Together with the First Baptist Church of Asheville, they are working on ways to transform the concerts into moments of reflection and hope, as well as an opportunity to support those affected by the disaster.
Details about how attendees can contribute to the rebuilding efforts will be shared on the Asheville Symphony’s website as plans unfold.
Join the Celebration
The performances of *Messiah* are not just a musical feast; they embody the spirit of giving back to the community. To witness this beautiful celebration of music, you can purchase tickets at AshevilleSymphony.org or by calling 828.254.7046. The First Baptist Church of Asheville is located at 5 Oak Street, Asheville.
Whether you are a long-time fan of classical music or looking for a heartwarming way to kick off the holiday season, the Asheville Symphony’s rendition of *Messiah* promises to be an experience that fills your heart with joy and inspiration.
