MORE THAN 100 PEOPLE attended the community-wide “Messiah Sing” Friday night, Dec. 14 at First Parish Congregational Church on Church Street. Church organist Donald Hodgkins is shown conducting the 16-piece ensemble. (Gail Lowe Photo)
Published in the December 17, 2018 edition.
By GAIL LOWE
WAKEFIELD — The Wakefield Community Messiah Sing was held at First Parish Congregational Church (FPCC) Friday night, Dec. 14. Well over 100 people turned out for what has become a favorite Christmas tradition.
Those participating sat in pews sectioned off for soprano, alto, tenor and bass singers.
Following welcome remarks from FPCC interim pastor Rev. Dr. Robert Leroe, a Christmas carol “warm-up” preceded the main event and included “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and “Joy to the World” with Donald Hodgkins, organist and director of music ministries, on organ.
Soloists were Moya Charig, soprano; Elizabeth Eschen, alto; Damien Corcoran, tenor and Charles Turner, bass.
Live accompaniment was provided by Dr. Caroline Lieber, concertmaster; Sarah Bowen and Olga Kaminsky, violin I; Priscilla Hunt, Janet Ierardi and Callie Ierardi, violin II; Mary Weeks, Claire Arakaki and Sam Millstone, viola; Beverly Bowman and Brianne Cate, cello; Peter Walsh, bass; Pamela Ross, oboe; Kevin King, bassoon; Randy O’Keefe, trumpet and Jane O’Keefe, keyboard.
Conductors were Hodgkins and Samuel Nelson.
The Messiah Sing was made possible by the Lena M. and Harry E. Upham Fund. Donations collected will be divided between Housing Families, a charity based in Malden that finds housing for needy families, and honorariums for the event’s professional musicians.
FPCC will hold its Christmas Sunday service on Dec. 23 at 10:30 a.m. and Christmas Eve services on Dec. 24 at 5 and a11 p.m.
George Frederic Handel composed the music for “Messiah” in 1741 over 24 days. The libretto, borrowed from the King James Bible and Coverdale Psalter, was written by Charles Jennens, also in 1741. The beloved composition was originally intended for the Easter season but is also performed during the Christmas season, as well.
