The Society’s Musical Director, Anthony Gray (above, left) said "It was wonderful to welcome Gareth to our rehearsal earlier this year, and to chat with him alongside some of our members about the performance history of this extraordinary work in Halifax. It is a privilege and a joy to be part of Halifax Choral Society’s unique inheritance and connection with this piece.”
Sharing the joy of Messiah
Gareth’s vision for the programme was to share Messiah’s unique place in our culture and introduce its brilliance to people yet to discover it. After his visit to Halifax Choral Society he said “This piece has such power and such history that people still turn out on a cold winter night to come and sing this music”. He hoped that introducing Messiah to untrained singers would help more people fall in love with this great choral classic as millions have already done right across the world.
Gareth recruited singers with potential and enthusiasm but no training. He explained that although he himself has been singing it since he was a boy he had never previously conducted it.
His new singers had sung pop songs and jazz but never classical music. When asked what they knew about Messiah, they said “nothing” One of them said; “I didn’t ever think, (sorry Gareth), classical music could move me”. Initially out of their comfort zone they found it challenging and didn’t think they could do it. But then they found they could. After the first few rehearsals one said “I feel it in every cell of my body; knees, toes everywhere.”
Choral Singing is Fun!
The programme showed people rallying around and supporting each other - one of the great things to come out of choral singing.
It showed how the power of music can bring something extra for people who already have busy lives, and for those who have health or other challenges. It brings moments of magic and drama, it builds confidence, it creates emotion, it can even lead to tears.
Baritone soloist Roderick Williams commented “Unity and power is exciting; the power of all of you doing the same thing together."
All the new singers found something meaningful in Handel’s Messiah. They said:
"It’s so wonderful to be surrounded by all this incredible sound."
"I should not wear make-up to rehearsals because it is going to run down my face."
"I get a sense of belonging. I’m never on my own".
RETURN TO HOME PAGE
