IF YOU GO* What: "Messiah" Community Sing-Along.* When: 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15.* Where: Chattanooga First Seventh-day Adventist Church, 7450 Standifer Gap Road.* Admission: Free.* Phone: 423-605-2468.
SOLOISTS* Cynthia Johnson - soprano* Andrea Dismukes - contralto* James Frost - tenor* Tony Deaton - bass
Sure, you know "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer," but can you handle Handel?
In an event that has become a musical hallmark of the season, Chattanooga First Seventh-day Adventist Church will host an all-denominational "Messiah" Community Sing-Along at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15. Dr. Lonnie McCalister, former dean of music at Lee University, will direct this fifth annual performance of the "Messiah" choruses.
According to organizers, nearly 500 people attend the sing-along each year, and audience participation is encouraged (an open rehearsal will be held at the church at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14). Those attending are asked to bring their own score. A limited number of chorus books will be available.
The concert will feature a chamber orchestra, a core choir and a children's choir. The chamber orchestra and core choir include community musicians and vocalists from surrounding churches of various denominations. The children's choir is composed of members of the Chattanooga Girls Choir.
At the close of the program, an offering will be taken at the door to benefit a Chattanooga charity. Refreshments will follow.