The 2008-2009 season will be an exciting time for the Worcester Chorus . Our programs include the tradition of Handel's "Messiah" , the drama and beauty of Bach's "St. Matthew Passion" and the spirit of Argento's "Jonah and the Whale".  These three programs demonstrate the organization's commitment to presenting the best in choral music.

Handel - MESSIAH

December 6, 2008 ; Mechanics Hall, Worcester, MA

“The Worcester Chorus’ litany of triumph continues. Another year, another “Messiah.” Another standing, stomping, cheering ovation by a capacity audience at Mechanics Hall”   -Worcester Telegram

“It is probably the most popular piece in the choral literature, yet conductor Andrew Clark managed to make Handel’s Messiah sound fresh.”   -Providence Journal

As Worcester’s most cherished holiday tradition, Handel’s Messiah has captivated and enthralled audiences for generations.  Celebrate the season with the dramatic and timeless Messiah as the Worcester Chorus offers its 110th annual performance in Mechanics Hall. 

Bach - SAINT MATTHEW PASSION

March 7, 2009 ; Mechanics Hall, Worcester, MA

“There is nothing like it, in all music”

                  -Leonard Bernstein

Once described as a “majestic cathedral of music” Bach’s St. Matthew Passion stands as one of the pillars of Western music, it is at once monumental and intimate, an emotional journey of anguish and hope, eloquent and forceful, an experience of tremendous impact and drama.  Music Worcester presents this epic work for the first Worcester performance in many years, with confidence it will be a major highlight of the 2008-2009 concert season.  A children’s choir, chamber orchestra and some of our country’s finest Bach soloists will join The Worcester Chorus in this performance.

WATER MUSIC: - Jonah & the Whale, Spirituals & Folk Songs

May 2, 2009 ; United Congregational Church, Worcester, MA

"I think that music ... began as an emotional language. For me, all music begins where speech stops."

                  -Dominick Argento

The delightful, eclectic, and riveting cantata, Jonah and the Whale, sets a variety of texts from medieval English poetry, sea shanties and worksongs, liturgical texts and contemporary verse. The Worcester Chorus presents the Massachusetts premiere of this significant masterwork of American choral music, written by Pulitzer-prize winner Dominick Argento, our country’s leading composer of lyric opera.  This fantastic tale, told by a narrator, soloists, instrumental ensemble and chorus, will fascinate and appeal to all ages.  The concert will also feature classic water-themed American folks songs and spirituals arranged by Stephen Paulus, Moses Hogan and others.

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