Does this mean I can start playing Chriatmas music now?

Actually, I’ve been singing Christmas music for weeks! – Chorale prep, you know.

Last night was the first performance of Handel’s Messiah with the Carolina Ballet. First time I’ve done it with them, but this is a long-standing tradition with the Master Chorale.

I have to admit, the thought of a major religious oratorio like Messiah being choreographed to ballet seemed a bit like sacrilege, but I was so very impressed. The dance moves, the costuming – everything was well-integrated into the textual elements of the work. The ballet is appropriate, compatible, joyful and reverent, from the first prophetic arias (our tenor and bass actually perform those arias of Part One on stage with the dancers!) to the final glorious “Amen!” where the Messiah Ascends into Heaven (with the help of a cable).

We’re in the orchestra pit, so we had to be broken up into mini-choirs for the weekend. I’m back on tap for Saturday’s matinee, and I’m really looking forward to it!

Meantime – y’all enjoy the turkey, and don’t forget to really thank God for all His blessings and provisions to you and yours.