Monadnock Chorus continues its 60th season with rehearsals beginning Wednesday, Jan. 22 in Peterborough, from 7 to 9 p.m.
Under the baton of Artistic Director Dr. Matthew Leese, the group will begin work on G.F. Handel’s oratorio, Esther, in preparation for concerts May 9 and 10.
All interested singers are welcome to join the non-auditioned community chorus regardless of past musical experience. Monadnock Chorus is committed to providing quality choral singing opportunities – and excellent concerts – for people throughout the Monadnock region. This season is no exception as Monadnock Chorus teams with Zenith Ensemble to present this baroque masterpiece.
“This compelling and intimate drama tells of the story of Jewish orphan, Esther, who becomes Queen of Persia and faces great danger to save her people from certain massacre,” Leese said. “It’s the dramatic tale of a triumphant heroine told in sensuous arias and stirring choruses. Our vocalists will be accompanied by a 16-piece Baroque orchestra, including rare period instruments.”
Monadnock Chorus welcomes singers of all experience levels. The group rehearses each Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Union Congregational Church in Peterborough.
“While many of our members have been singing with the chorus for years and years, we are constantly adding new voices,” Leese said. “We enjoy bringing music lovers into the Monadnock Chorus family – including those who remember from past experiences how fulfilling choral singing can be.”
The current collaboration with Zenith Ensemble brings together one of the region’s foremost volunteer musical groups with northern New England’s own professional choir. Zenith professional soloists and instrumentalists will join Monadnock Chorus in presenting this moving oratorio in May.
More information about the Monadnock Chorus, rehearsals and the May concerts can be found at www.monadnock-chorus.org or by emailing monadnockchorus@gmail.com.