For more information:
Rob Price, Director of Marketing (Media calls)
602.243.8030 
Choir Information: Cheryl Holguin: 602.243.8382 

Twentieth Annual Performance of Handel’s Messiah Set for Dec. 1

For the 20th year, the Music Department of South Mountain Community College invites singers from the community to  be part of the SMCC holiday tradition of performing excerpts from Handel’s Messiah.

Each year, the choir attracts 65 to 75 to voices, accompanied by a professional orchestra.    Dr. Jerome K. Garrison Sr. will direct the concert.

In the past, choir members have included area high school students, college students, church choir members, and other amateur and professional singers. The 20th Annual Holiday Concert will be Sat., Dec. 1, at 6:30 p.m. in Performance Hall of SMCC, 7050 S. 24th St. (See ticket information below).
 
Times and dates of the two-hour choir rehearsals are Wednesdays (Nov. 7, 14, 21, and 28 at 5:30 p.m.) and Saturdays (Nov. 10, 17, 24) at 3:30 p.m.  Also, Saturday, Dec. 1 (dress rehearsal) from 1 to 3 p.m. 

Participants who have sung Messiah before are required to attend a minimum of three rehearsals. Those who are unfamiliar with Messiah must audition and must attend all rehearsals.  An audition is set for Oct. 31 at 5:30 p.m., Music Building, Room 530.  Or, to set up an audition, contact Cheryl Holguin at 602.243.8382 or Dr. Jerome Garrison at 602.243.8055.

Participants will receive a concert t-shirt as a memento.

Dr. Garrison, an Ahwatukee resident and music faculty at South Mountain Community College, began the “Messiah” performances because he wanted to tap into community talent for a special performance.   The annual event is a favorite among music-lovers from throughout Arizona.

2007 MESSIAH PERFORMANCE DETAILS

Tickets are $10 and available at Showup.com or call the SMCC Business Office at 602.243.8125. All seating is general (not assigned).

The 2007/2008-performance season at South Mountain Community College is sponsored in part by The Arizona Lottery.