The Vancouver Bach Choir and professional soloists present Handel’s Messiah, conducted by Calvin Dyck, on Saturday, Dec. 6 at Gateway Community Church (2884 Abbotsford-Mission Hwy.).
The performance begins at 7 p.m. and features soloists mezzo soprano Alison Nystrom, alto Ingrid Mapson, tenor John Bacon from England and bass Chad Louwerse.
The concert also features a professional orchestra. Handel’s Messiah is a translation of text into choral and orchestral sounds.
It was written in just 18 days, at a time when Handel was at the peak of his musical powers and yet in a state of deep depression.
Over the last 260 years, the “Messiah” has become an important part of the Christmas season around the world.
The Vancouver Bach Choir, one of the largest choral organizations in Canada, has been performing since 1930 and offers concerts in Vancouver and throughout the Lower Mainland.
Nystrom (in photo at left) is noted for her expressiveness and has performed across North America and Europe.
She currently teaches voice at Trinity Western University and Kwantlen Polytechnic University in Langley.
Mapson has toured with groups in Western Canada, the U.S. and Bahamas; played roles with Theatre Under the Stars; and was recently selected as a finalist for Canada’s Got Talent.
Bacon has established himself as a singer of exceptional musicianship, warmth, style and character. He has performed throughout Europe, North America and Australia.
Louwerse is an active oratorio singer and recitalist who made his European operatic debut with L’Opéra National du Rhin in Strasbourg.
Tickets are $29 for adults, $25 for seniors and $15 for students and are available at House of James and King’s Music.
