Classical Concert Reviews Cinci

@collegium_cincy continued its 2023-24 season with its annual complete performance of George Frederic Handel’s choral masterpiece Messiah, long considered a musical essential of the Christmas season. As is tradition with Collegium, the chorus was no bigger than 16 singers, which possessed a vocal presence which was effervescent, florid, commanding, and full of unbridled joy.
For a chorus of this size, each member got its turn in the solo spotlight to sing many of the most well-known recitatives and arias to come from Handel’s pen (Messiah having been composed in only 24 days in 1741). Standout solos from tonight’s performance included a sprightly and joyful account of Rejoice Greatly from soprano Maren Hrivnak (@maren.hrivnak), a stirring and poignant evocation of I Know That My Redeemer Liveth from soprano Alexandra Schoeny, (@alexandraschoeny), elegant and soulful turns from alto Rachel Bell (@rachaelmbell) in He Shall Feed his Flock, and charismatic and impassioned solos from Henry Benson (@jhenrybv), Salleigh Harvey (@salleighharvey_mezzo), Jackie Stevens (@jackies.7095), Thom Dreeze, Mike White, Kate Gardin and Tess Klibanoff (@tess.rachel.mezzo) throughout Parts 1 and 2.
Matthew Phelps, artistic director of Collegium Cincinnati, led the singers and orchestra with vigor, a relaxed lightness, and fiery passion, with a particular emphasis on the dramatic stress of phrases in choruses which led to more hushed endings than are typically heard in performances today.
It is always a treat to hear the complete Messiah outside of cities like New York or London, and Collegium Cincinnati brought it to life masterfully in the splendor of Christ Church Cathedral (@christchurchcathedralcincy). Eagerly looking forward to this ensemble’s musical offerings to come in the new year.