Talent & tradition collide to bring Handel’s Messiah to the masses
Spencer McKnight takes the stage with other guest soloists in the SSO’s double bill of Handel’s Messiah. (Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra)
It’s hard to argue with a Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra tradition that’s been around longer than the SSO itself. This year, (December 14 & 15, 2018) marks the 105th time Handel’s Messiah will echo through Saskatoon heralding the Christmas season. Tenor Spencer McKnight says it’s the piece he looks forward to most all year.
“I just don’t get sick of it! It feels so good to perform,” says McKnight. “Every year we come back to this score and you find new ornaments within the music, ways you can present it differently every year.”
Originally composed for Easter, Handel’s Messiah is based on the story of Christ but it’s a favourite among the masses, regardless of religious beliefs. It’s now a Christmas staple.
“This is the single most played piece of music around the globe”
“This is the single most played piece of music around the globe,” says SSO Executive Director Mark Turner. “I think it’s a compelling narrative, whether you believe in Christ or not. This is a phenomenal body of music.”
This is actually a pair of shows. that will feature soloists Allison Walmsley, Lisa Hornung, Adam Harris and the Saskatoon Symphony Chorus as well as McKnight. The Friday night performance is a 3-hour extravaganza of sound performed by the professionals. On Saturday afternoon though, the audience will take centre stage as they are invited to sing along. Sheet music is provided and everyone is invited to make a joyful noise. McKnight says the sing-along is a really cool experience.
“We get the best seat in the house sitting on stage facing the audience,” says McKnight. “It’s just this beautiful wall of sound coming back at you.”
If you’d like more information on both of these shows click this link.
Handel’s Messiah
Friday Dec. 14, 2018
7:30 p.m.
Knox United Church
Tickets $50
