After two decades the first part of Handel’s ‘Messiah’ to be sung
The first part of Handel’s ‘Messiah’ will be performed in Sri Lanka for the first time after a hiatus of two decades. Although parts of the work have been performed by various choirs, the last time the entire work was performed was a few decades ago by the Symphony Orchestra and Chorus of Sri Lanka, conducted by (late) Professor Earle De Fonseka. This time, OKTAVE and friends will perform the work conducted by Dr. Lalanath De Silva, whose wish to perform ‘Messiah’ in Sri Lanka began this project.
‘ Messiah’ was composed by George Frideric Handel in 1741. Part I of Handel’s Messiah prophesies the birth of Jesus Christ and it is therefore traditionally performed during Christmastime – a practice which was solidified by the 19th century not only in Europe but also in the United States. The text prepared by librettist Charles Jennens deals with the events surrounding the birth of Christ. This performance will feature a few additions from Part II, including the ‘Hallelujah chorus’.
The choir ’OKTAVE’ was founded by Neranjan de Silva in 2009. For this performance, OKTAVE will be joined by other choristers and a chamber orchestra of selected musicians. Dr. Lalanath De Silva is the former conductor of the Symphony Orchestra in Sri Lanka and he will be conducting the performance during his holiday in Sri Lanka, as he currently resides in South Korea. The soloists are Anagi Perera (soprano), Peshali Yapa (alto), Trevis de Silva (tenor) and Laknath Seneviratne (bass).
‘Messiah’ will be performed on December 21 at 6.30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church, Bambalapitiya. Entrance is free.