Handel's Messiah

Hailed as a “venerable holiday tradition” performed with “an exultant spirit that [comes] from the heart” by The Chicago Tribune, The Apollo Chorus’s famous rendition of Handel’s Messiah has been performed nearly every December since 1879 —a track record unmatched in the city of Chicago. Few works today are as celebrated or beloved as Handel’s Messiah, and this annual performance has become a holiday tradition for many Chicago families. The unparalleled quartet of soloists in this time-honored piece includes soprano Amanda Majeski, fresh from her acclaimed performances in The Passenger at Lyric Opera. Performances will be held Saturday, December 19 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 20 at 2:00 p.m. at Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive, Chicago.

The Apollo Chorus is Chicago’s oldest musical organization, founded in 1872 in the aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire, performing preeminent choral works at premier venues. Newcity raves that “Alltop’s unbroken track record for training his chorus to express such varieties of style and color rivals any other in the city!” Its approximately 120 auditioned members include men and women of all ages, races, and backgrounds brought together by their love of music. The Apollo Chorus has performed at notable historic events, such as the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, the Century of Progress International Exposition, the opening of Medinah Temple, the opening of Orchestra Hall (Apollo was considered the official chorus of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra prior to the formation of the Symphony Chorus), the opening of Navy Pier, and Oprah’s final show. Recently, the chorus performed at the 125th Anniversary Gala of the Auditorium Theatre with a rousing rendition of “Do You Hear the People Sing?” from the iconic musical Les Misérables. They also performed at the venue’s 1889 opening.

The Apollo Chorus continually strives to advance musically and to share the power, beauty and majesty of choral music by presenting concerts and educational programs for diverse communities throughout Chicago and beyond.

Season subscriptions are $100. Individual tickets are $30-$60. To purchase individual tickets or to book a group, call 312.427.5620 or visit www.apollochorus.org.