On Saturday, Dec. 8, the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra will present Handel’s “Messiah” with four guest vocal soloists and the Elmhurst Choral Union.
The orchestra, under the director of maestro Stilian Kirov, will perform at 3 p.m. at Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, 6601 W. College Drive in Palos Heights.
Handel composed the “Messiah” in just 24 days in 1741. The piece, a favorite of audiences today, “is monumental with its inspirational beauty and artistic integrity,” Kirov said. “Apart from being brilliantly composed, the biblical subject adds an exciting meaning to the extraordinary musical content.”
The work’s Hallelujah Chorus is the most recognized section of the piece, but Kirov said, “I feel that every movement carries this extraordinary spirituality. The whole ‘Messiah’ is a masterpiece.”
Tickets are $27 in advance. Student tickets are $10, and group tickets are available with a minimum of seven patrons. To place an order, or for more information, visit ipomusic.org or call the IPO offices at 708-481-7774.
This presentation is sponsored in part by the Ozinga Foundation and the Illinois Arts Council Agency.