Press Release
November 30, 2007
Authentic 18th Century Re-Creation of Handel's Messiah to be Performed by the San Diego Chamber Orchestra

Last year, the San Diego Chamber Orchestra, now in its second year under Artistic Director, Jung-Ho Pak, created a sensation by performing Handel's Messiah with forces that were lighter and more transparent than traditional approaches. It was the first time in San Diego that a fully professional chorus and orchestra had come together to present a performance that captured much of the original aestheticism of the very first concert. Audience members responded enthusiastically, with sold-out performances.

This year, Maestro Pak will lead the Orchestra and the Bach Collegium chorus, under the direction of Ruben Valenzuela, in a performance that will again present an authentic 18th century re-creation of Messiah, providing an experience that gives a fresh and deeper meaning to the text and the music.

Handel's premiere of Messiah utilized a small, intimately-sized chorus and orchestra that allowed the text and counterpoint to be transparent and intelligible. Pak believes that this also helps amplify the drama of this highly personal and spiritual oratorio. "It is my hope that, with focus on the sacred text, the audience will experience the full measure of the composer's humble devotion to his faith," Pak says.

Four highly acclaimed vocal soloists will be featured: Virginia Sublett, Soprano; Katherine Lundeen, Alto; Scott Whittaker, Tenor; and Phil Larson, Bass.

The music will be performed in three San Diego area venues:

Friday, December 14, 7:30 p.m.
Solana Beach Presbyterian Church, Solana Beach

Saturday, December 15, 7:30 p.m.
St. James-By-the-Sea Church, La Jolla

Sunday, December 16, 4:00 p.m.
California Center for the Arts (CCAE), Escondido

Tickets are available for the Friday and Saturday performances at www.sdco.org or 858-350-0290.

Tickets are available for the Sunday performance at CCAE by calling 800-988-4253.

For additional information or photos, please contact marketing@sdco.org.