Penrith Symphony Orchestra and Penrith City Choir join forces to end the year on a high, presenting a much-anticipated performance of Handel’s Messiah on December 2 at 3pm. Firmly established now as a tradition of the Christmas and festive season in Penrith, this concert is also a must see for lovers of choral music.
PSO welcomes back Sarah Penicka-Smith following her conducting debut with the orchestra in 2017. Known for her energy and dynamism, Penicka-Smith specialises in opera and choral music. Her opera credits include multiple productions with Opera Prometheus, and most recently Purcell’s Dido & Aeneas with the Macquarie Singers in 2017.
She is an alumna of the Symphony Australia Conductor Development Program and has guest conducted with ensembles such as Willoughby Symphony Orchestra, Ku-ring-gai Philharmonic Orchestra and Sydney Chamber Orchestra.
In music like Messiah it’s all about the power of human voice, and for this performance the well-known local ensembles Warrimoo Chorale and Academy singers will augment Penrith City Choir. The combined chorus of close to 100 voices will take to the stage alongside four fabulous young soloists, all with the sensitive support of the orchestra.
The work itself needs no introduction, being amongst Handel’s most famous compositions. Nonetheless, the details surrounding its creation and history offer up some interesting facts: The composer completed the entire oratorio in just 24 days, astounding given the work as a whole has a score running to 260 pages.
Perhaps best known though, is the story explaining why audiences stand during the Hallelujah Chorus: Legend has it that King George II of England spontaneously stood up at the beginning of the chorus during the 1743 London premiere, prompting the rest of the crowd to follow suit. It is in all likelihood a tall tale, but a good one, with the tradition of standing persisting to the present day.
Messiah offers something for everyone in a family friendly event: rousing music and wonderful soloists. Be uplifted by the sound and power of the choir.
Book now at the box office of The Joan, online at www.thejoan.com.au or call 4723 7600.
