Big crowd hears ‘Messiah’ performance

DAVE MOSIER/independent editor

Sunday’s performance of Handel’s Messiah by a chorus of more than 60 community residents, a chamber orchestra and four talented soloists got an appreciative crowd into the spirit of what Christmas is all about during the biennial performance of Handel’s masterwork at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert.

Conductor Paul Hoverman, who also directs the church’s senior choir, directed the chorus, orchestra and four professional soloists: Charlotte Detrick (soprano), Julia Szabo (alto), Van Wert resident Jacob Wilder (tenor) and Timothy J. Bruno (bass), to perform the solos in this year’s Messiah. All did a nice job on their respective parts.

A 14-piece orchestra ago was also featured that included first violinists Maria Bessmeltseva-Juilien and Carla Weltin, second violinists Tania Moldovan and Robert Howell, Gustavo Carpinteyro on viola, Larry Carney on bass, Terri Ribetta and Justin Fetters on oboe, Susan Brubaker on bassoon, trumpeters Stephen Campbell and Tim Hoverman, Robert Sloan on timpani, Annette Hoverman on harpsichord and Gloria Wendel on organ.

As is traditional with Messiah, the large audience stood when the “Hallelujah” chorus was performed and, as is traditional in Van Wert, clapped long and loudly following the chorus, which, although not actually a part of the “Christmas” portion of the oratorio, is frequently performed as the finale to advent performances (click the following link for an audio clip Hallelujah Chorus 12-9-12).

It was not only a great way to remember the “reason for the season,” but also a chance to hear some great music as well (click here for more Messiah photos).

The performance was underwritten by The Van Wert County Foundation.