Rehearsals are underway at the Bethesda Mennonite Church for the presentation of Handel’s” Messiah” on Dec. 14. Every three years, the church’s Chancel Choir (pictured in this York News-Times file photo), accompanied by the Nebraska Symphony Chamber Orchestra, performs the “Messiah” for the Christmas season.
York News-Times Reprint
HENDERSON — The Bethesda Mennonite Church Choir will present Handel’s “Messiah” at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at the church in Henderson.
Handel’s “Messiah” is “one of the finest wonders of the musical world,” the church noted in a press release. Written for Easter, it took time for “Messiah” to find its niche as a Christmas favorite as the whole first part is about the birth of Christ.
The choir, directed by Lynn Hall, will be accompanied by the Nebraska Symphony Chamber Orchestra and Dr. Chelsea Vaught on the harpsichord. Soloists include: Suna Gunther, soprano; Katelynn Lawson, alto; Richard Drews, tenor; and Thomas Gunther, bass.
The Bethesda Mennonite Church Chancel Choir has a tradition of a high level of music performance for both worship service settings and special performances.
The first presentation of “Messiah” at Bethesda was in 1969 under the direction of Don Peters with soloists and keyboard accompaniment. In 1981, the choir began a partnership with the chamber orchestra from Lincoln to accompany the performance. This relationship continues to the present day. Every three years, Bethesda makes the commitment to offer this type of outreach to the public. There is no cost for admission, and the service is supported by a freewill offering.
For more information, call the church at 402-723-4562. It is located at 930 16th Street in Henderson.
