Masterworks Concert Features 'Israel in Egypt'
The Alma Symphony Orchestra and Alma College Choirs will join together to perform George Fredric Handel’s “Israel in Egypt.”
The annual masterworks concert takes place at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 31st and 4 p.m. Sunday, April 1st. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors 62 and up, and free for Alma College Staff, students, and youth 18 and under. Seating is reserved. Call (989) 463-7304 for ticket information.
Composed in 1738, “Israel in Egypt” is considered one of the greatest oratorios, second perhaps only to Handel’s “Messiah,” says Murray Gross, Alma Symphony Orchestra director. Its texts are derived from the Bible or variants from the Book of Common Prayer, combining sacred works and musical expression into a single masterpiece.
Members of the Alma Choir at a recent performance.
“This is a piece that is filled with great chorus,” says Gross. “It is equally engaging and fun to witness as it is to perform.”
Written in English, “Israel in Egypt” uses the Exodus narrative, told through music, with portions from the Psalms.
The performance is divided into two parts with an intermission. The first part contains the Israelites’ bondage in Egypt, the infliction of the 10 plagues, and the flight of the Israelites from Egypt, ending with their escape through the parted Red Sea. The second part emphasizes the rejoicing of the Israelites at their deliverance from oppression.
As a cornerstone of choral literature, “Israel in Egypt” is a great opportunity for the Alma College Choirs, directed by Will Nichols, and the Alma Symphony Orchestra to perform together, says Gross.
-eh-
Posted: Tue, March 20th, 2012 at 10:52AM
