Charis For Immediate Release Contact: Betsy Turner

PO Box 601 September, 2001 (914) 271-0714

Bedford, NY 10506

www.charisvocals.com

CHARIS CHAMBER VOICES TO PERFORM HANDEL’S “MESSIAH”

Charis Chamber Voices, the acclaimed Westchester-based vocal ensemble led by Susanne Peck, will present a complete performance of Handel’s “Messiah” at 7:30 PM on December 8 at the Tarrytown Music Hall, a 116-year-old landmark known for its excellent acoustics. Charis will be accompanied by a Baroque orchestra featuring many of the finest instrumentalists in the New York area. Joining the ensemble will be four renowned soloists: Beverly Myers, soprano; Alexandra Montano, alto; Jon Humphrey, tenor, and Charles Robert Stephens, bass.

Dennis Keene, director of New York City’s famed Voices of Ascension, has called Charis “the finest chorus in Westchester County.” The group, usually numbering 28, will be joined by about 15 guest singers for this performance. Still, it is important, says Ms. Peck, for the chorus to remain relatively small, in keeping with Baroque tradition. “The delicacy and intricacy of ‘Messiah’ demands a select group of accomplished singers like Charis,” says Ms. Peck, whom Michael Jaffee, director of the Waverly Consort, has described as “a gifted conductor.”

Presenting a fresh performance of Handel’s most famous oratorio is a challenge Ms. Peck welcomes. “It is not simply a matter of learning the music, of knowing the notes and the words,” she says. “We have to move far beyond that. Only with a total commitment from the heart can we proclaim the message of the work and give a performance that truly sparkles.”

“Messiah” uses selected biblical texts to tell the story of Jesus, from Old Testament prophecy to the Resurrection. It includes many famous settings for soloists and chorus, including “He Shall Feed His Flock,” “Rejoice Greatly,” and the “Hallelujah Chorus.” “Messiah” had its debut in 1742 and became immediately popular. Handel gave numerous performances of the oratorio during his lifetime, and it remains one of the most beloved choral works of all time.

Concert tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for seniors and students. Holders of tickets bought before November 15 will receive preferred seating. To purchase tickets, call 914-914-931-6575. The Music Hall is located at 13 Main Street, Tarrytown, NY. For more about Charis and complete directions to the Music Hall, visit the Charis website at www.charisvocals.com.