Danika Lorén is no stranger to pieces of music that challenge and push her to be better. The soprano, originally from Colonsay, has just come off a year that saw her play lead in the Canadian Opera Company’s production of La Bohéme and was part of the first professional live broadcast of opera in Toronto. While she may be coming home for the holidays to perform with the SSO, the piece of music she’s tackling is no vacation.

“The Messiah is very challenging technically. Each aria explores a different technique and requires a different type of singing,” Lorén says. “It’s in English but even so, you have to elevate your diction to make sure the audience understands what you are singing.”

Handel’s Messiah is a long standing, 106-year tradition for the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra. The SSO is continuing with a pair of dates on Friday night, the professional musicians will perform. Then in Saturday, it’s the audience’s turn to sing-along with the pros, both shows are at Knox United Church.

Handel’s Messiah is a favourite among the masses and a regular sell-out for the SSO.

“I think it’s a compelling narrative and a phenomenal body of music.”

“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 and a phenomenal body of music.”

Lorén who will be joined by the orchestra alongside alto Lisa Hornung, tenor Spencer McKnight, bass Adam Harris and the Saskatoon Symphony Chorus says there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with this classic music.

“The soloists don’t sing together that much during the performance so it’s a great chance to sit back and listen to world-class vocalists who also happen to be your friends. It’s a fantastic reason to come home,” she says. “I feel the love when I come home too. It’s such an intimate experience as complete strangers will come up and hug you just to thank you for your performance.”

After the professional performance Friday, the audience will take center stage Saturday as they are invited to sing along. Sheet music is provided and everyone is invited to make a joyful noise.

“There’s just something about everyone in one room singing together,” says Lorén. “It’s a really powerful and unifying experience at Christmas.”

Handel’s Messiah

Friday Dec. 13, 2019

7:30p.m.

Knox United Church

Tickets: $52

Click here for details.

 

Sing-Along Messiah

Saturday Dec. 14, 2019

2:00p.m.

Knox United Church

Tickets: $25 – $45

Click here for details.