Messiah Sing

On Dec. 10 at
4 pm St. John's Episcopal Church in Ramsey willresound with a chorus of voices singing Handel’sMessiah. Community singers are invited andencouraged to come together to sing and performone of the greatest oratorios ever written.

The performance will be directed by St. John's own Choirmaster Drew Kreismer and
accompanied by Organist Richard Frey on the Nevin pipe organ, Ramsey's largest
organ consisting of more than 1300 pipes across three manuals. Featured professionalsoloists are Ann Lee-MacKenzie (Soprano), Beth Schwartz (Mezzo-Soprano), SeanFallen (Tenor) and James Gregory (Bass). St. John's Senior Choir will provide
additional vocal support for the event.

Just how, where, and when the tradition of community Messiah Sings began is less thanclear. The practice of standing for the Hallelujah chorus is said to have begun when thepiece was performed in London in 1743 and King George II stood upon hearing For the
Lord God Omnipotent Reigneth, remaining on his feet until the chorus finished.

However the tradition began, singing Handel's Messiah together with family, friends, andneighbors remains a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas. Come add your voice and
enable this first ever community Messiah Sing at St. John's to become an annual
tradition.

Tickets are $15 at the door or by calling the church at 201-327-0703 for advance purchase. Singers may
bring their own music scores or rent scores for $5 at the door.

The performance will begin at 4 pm, followed by a Candlelight Reception in the church Parish Hall.

St. John's is located at the corner of Franklin Turnpike and Main Street in Ramsey.