Masterwork performance at SFA to feature Mendelssohn's 'Elijah'

Chris Turner, assistant professor in the SFA School of Music, will sing the role of Elijah when the combined choirs at SFA, the Orchestra of the Pines and music faculty soloists perform Felix Mendelssohn's oratorio "Elijah" at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 5, in W.M. Turner Auditorium.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas - The combined choirs at Stephen F. Austin State University, along with the Orchestra of the Pines and faculty soloists, will present Felix Mendelssohn's oratorio "Elijah" at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 5, in W.M. Turner Auditorium on the SFA campus.

The oratorio depicts events in the life of the biblical prophet Elijah, taken from the books 1 Kings and 2 Kings of the Old Testament.

This choral and orchestral masterwork will feature the A Cappella Choir, Choral Union and Women's Choir, along with voice faculty members Debbie Berry, soprano; Ric Berry, tenor; and Nita Hudson, alto. Chris Turner, assistant professor in the School of Music, will sing the role of Elijah. Tim King, director of choral activities at SFA, will conduct.

"Ever since Handel's 'Messiah' had first captivated audiences in 1743 - and recently for Nacogdoches on April 8 by the A Cappella Choir and Chamber Orchestra - 'Elijah' has occupied a pre-eminent position in concert halls around the world," King said. "After its resounding first performance, 'Elijah' immediately established itself as second only to 'Messiah.' It has received countless performances since its premier in 1846 and has enjoyed an enormous popularity to the present day."

Among the familiar choruses and solos included are "He Watching Over Israel," "Cast Thy Burden Upon the Lord," "If With All Your Hearts," "Is Not His Word Like a Fire," "O Rest in the Lord" and "Thanks be to God."

Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and $3 for students and youth. For tickets or more information, call the SFA Fine Arts Box Office at (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS or visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu.