Annual sing-along at Provo church

By Deven Leigh Ellis
Asst. Life Editor

 

Monday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m., UVU’s Director of Choral Studies Dr. Reed Criddle will direct over 100 participating students at the annual community Christmas Sing-Along of Handel’s Messiah. The long-standing tradition used to take place at the Provo Tabernacle, but since a fire gutted the building’s interior on Dec. 17, 2010, cosponsors Provo Arts Council and Provo Community United Church of Christ have decided to hold the event in the church’s sanctuary.

 

The free event is open to the public and will feature popular highlights from Handel’s Messiah, culminating from the efforts of UVU’s Masterworks Chorale, orchestra members and over 10 soloists. The distinguishing feature of the event, though, is the invitation to the community to sing along with their favorite arrangements.

 

“It’s not a normal concert where you just sit and take in the music,” Criddle said.

 

Printed scores to the concert will be distributed at the door.  The event is expected to last approximately two hours.

 

As opposed to more formal Christmas shows, the appeal of the Sing-Along lies in its informality.

 

“What makes this [concert] different is all the student soloists and its approach from many different angles. It’s not supposed to be a polished musical experience,” Criddle said.

 

Even if audience members harbor an aversion to singing in public, Criddle promises the Sing-Along to be an enjoyable affair.

 

“The wonderful thing about UVU December concerts is that students have been prepping all semester. It’s the culmination of all their hard work and creativity.”

 

Messiah Facts:

• Written by George Frideric Handel in the 18th century.

• Written in just 24 days.

• Debuted in Dublin, Ireland on April 13, 1742