Big-chorus Messiah oratorio a crowd pleaser | Rotorua News | Local News in Rotorua

The Rotorua District Choir is to perform one of the world's most popular choral classics later in the year - Handel's Messiah.

Conductor Elizabeth Pullar said this would be the choir's next performance at St Lukes church from May 12 to 15.

"We haven't done it for seven years but it is very popular here in Rotorua with audiences and the choristers."

The oratorio - a sacred story set to music - is about the birth of Christ and Mrs Pullar said the work was popular because of the beautiful music with huge chorus numbers such as the well known Hallelujah.

Partnering the choir will be well-known organist John Wells.

The choir, which celebrated its 50th Jubilee in 2010, has 50 members and Mrs Pullar said the aim was "to provide excellence in choral singing".

They hold three concerts a year and as well as Handel's Messiah there will be a Rogers and Hammerstein celebration and a traditional Christmas concert. There are also three other conductors: Evelyn Falconer, Ursula Schraa and Martyn Heath.

The choir sing at a variety of venues including St Marys, St Michaels and the mezzanine floor at the Rotorua District Council.

Mrs Pullar said the choir meets once a week from 7.30 to 9.30 at the Bainbridge Methodist Church in Old Taupo Rd. New members are welcome.

"Ideally they should be able to sing in tune and note reading will be helpful but not necessary."

Mrs Pullar said one of the main requisites was that people should have a love of singing.

"The choir group is very friendly and people develop long-term relationships.

"There is a mixed range of ages from 20-year-olds upwards".

Rehearsals for Messiah begin on Thursday January 31. Those interested in joining the Rotorua District Choir should contact Elizabeth Pullar on (07) 985 4119.

Rotorua District Choir Membership: 50 members

What the club does: Provide excellence in choral singing

Where: Bainbridge Methodist Church, 187 Old Taupo Rd

Contact: Elizabeth Pullar (07) 985 4119