Maestro Thierry Fischer Conducts Utah Symphony in Handel's MESSIAH, 11/30-12/1

Maestro Thierry Fischer conducts the Utah Symphony in a beloved Utah holiday tradition, Handel's "Messiah" Sing-In, as the Utah Symphony Chorus and Utah Opera resident artists join with the 2,000-voice audience chorus at Abravanel Hall November 30 and December 1.

On Sat. Nov. 30 only, volunteers from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir will be seated with members of the audience in the hall and lend their voices to the incredible chorus. In addition, around 75 singers from the University of Utah will sing from their seats among the audience on Sun. Dec. 1. On both evenings, Utah Opera Resident Artists will be featured soloists who share the stage with the orchestra and the Utah Symphony Chorus, prepared by Symphony Chorus Director Barlow Bradford.

"Handel's 'Messiah' is a masterpiece that is truly inspiring," said Maestro Thierry Fischer, "I look forward to this great occasion when we join together as orchestra, chorus and audience members to perform such a magnificent work."

George Frideric Handel completed the score during a 24-day fury in the late summer of 1741 and by the reactions of the Irish press during the rehearsals and 1742 Dublin premiere, it was clear that the quickness of its creation did not speak to a lack of assured quality or effectiveness.

The practice of standing for the "Hallelujah" Chorus comes from a convenient, if completely speculative legend. No one really knows for sure whether or not King George II stood for it in 1743, making it necessary for all of his subjects to stand too and inadvertently setting a precedent. In fact, no one knows for sure whether or not he was even at the performance. His reportedly spontaneous show of emotion persists regardless. It is also interesting to note that, contrary to modern convention, Handel clearly intended "Messiah" for the Easter observances rather than Christmas and the performances during his day were always given in the spring.

The "Messiah" Sing-In marks the first event hosted by Utah Symphony Opera Latinos (SOL), a group dedicated towards connecting Latino families in the Salt Lake City community through great live music. Join Utah SOL for the "Messiah" Sing in on November 30th at 7pm. After the performance the group will enjoy the lights at Temple Square. Call for special priced tickets of $10.00 per ticket. Utah SOL will have a block of tickets reserved for the performance.

Single tickets for the performance start at $10 and can be purchased by phone at (801) 355-2787, in person at the Abravanel Hall ticket office (123 W. South Temple) or online by visiting www.utahsymphony.org. Those desiring group discounts should call (801) 869-9046. All ticket prices are subject to change and availability, and will increase $5 when purchased on the day of the performance.