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The New Castle
Music Club Chorus |
| Mission Statement The mission of the NEW CASTLE MUSIC CLUB Chorus is to prepare and perform George Frideric Handel's Messiah - the watershed oratorio that has excited and challenged humankind for generations -- and to offer to our listeners and performers the distinct opportunity to be a part of this truly monumental classic. We strive to continually develop the musical, artistic, educational, and spiritual aspects of this single work. We aim to include participants across age, racial, and physically challenged spectrums. (The chorus has included the blind and regularly offers an interpreter-in-sign language for the hearing impaired. All performance sites are accessible to the handicapped.) It is common to have both teenagers and octogenarians working on and performing the same voice part. Did You Know? In 1939, the NEW CASTLE MUSIC CLUB Chorus premiered its annual performance of Handel's Messiah at the First Presbyterian Church in New Castle, Pennsylvania. Originally comprised of members, associates, and friends of the New Castle Music Club, the chorus has recruited members from over forty area churches as well as students from several local high schools and colleges and citizens from across western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio. This production has historically featured talented, regional musicians and music educators-- including organists, pianists, vocal soloists, trumpeters, flautists, percussionists, and choir members. The chorus has performed annually (excepting 1969 and 1970) under the leadership of three experienced conductors: Mrs. W. Walter (Ruth) Braham (1939-1968), Mrs. Kenneth (Betty) Gibson (1971-1990), and Harry M. Cunningham (1991-current). Performances have previously been hosted by nine New Castle area churches, the Scottish Rite Cathedral of New Castle, the Third Baptist Church of Youngstown, and Westminster College. The Saturday, November 28, 1998 performance marked the first collaboration between the New Castle Music Club Chorus and Penn State Shenango. A Message from our Director,
Warm Summer Greetings, Dear Readers, As we enjoy these gorgeous July days and nights, I recall the opening lyrics of that 17th century hymn favorite, "Beautiful Savior:" Fair is the sunshine, As I glance at our count-down clock and as we plan for
our Messiah 2010 season, I'm also reminded: our Messiah came
down from Heaven, lived a perfect Earthly life, selflessly gave Himself
for us, was cross-sacrificed and defeated death and His grave, and sits
at God's right hand. Blessing and honor, glory and power be unto Him… forever and ever! Meanwhile, let us lift our Messiah to "the fairest" in our lives and adore Him daily as we delight in His will and walk in His glorious ways. Harry Cunningham
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