AU music performing Handel’s “Messiah” during Nov. 9 fall choral concert

ASHLAND, Ohio – The Ashland University Department of Music will present “Messiah,” George Frideric Handel’s masterpiece, during its annual fall choral concert Sunday, Nov. 9, at 2:30 p.m., at Hugo Young Theatre inside the Center for the Arts.

The AU Choir and Ashland Area Chorus will join with student and alumni soloists as well as the Ashland Chamber Orchestra, a fully professional ensemble, in concert. Both famous and lesser-known choruses and solo movements will be performed from the celebrated work, which features texts drawn exclusively from Scripture.

“Come for the musical enjoyment. Come for the spiritual enrichment. Come for the traditions,” said Ron Blackley, who will conduct the concert and serves as director of choral activities and professor of music at AU.

The AU Choir is comprised of students selected via audition and represents numerous academic majors, while the Ashland Area Chorus is a mix of students and community members.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. They are $10 for adults, senior citizens and AU faculty and staff. Admission is free for AU students and anyone under the age of 18, however, a ticket is still required. Tickets are available online at ashland.edu/performing-arts-tickets (credit card sales only) or in person at the AU Campus Store during normal business hours.

For more information, contact Ron Blackley at rblackle@ashland.edu.