The Bach Choir of Bethlehem performances at Millersville

It’s just like the Marauder spirit to “Seize the Opportunity.” On March 9, 2013 at 3 p.m., Millersville students and Dr. Mark A. Boyle, director of choral activities and assistant professor of music, will be performing with The Bach Choir of Bethlehem under the direction of Maestro Greg Funfgeld, in The Winter Visual and Performing Arts Center-Clair Performance Hall.

The oldest ensemble of its kind in the United States, The Bach Choir of Bethlehem is set to perform Mendelssohn’s Elijah, a difficult and rarely performed oratorio that was composed in 1846. “It’s a challenging work—a stamina test for all musicians,” said Boyle. Primarily a soloist, Boyle expressed great excitement for The Bach Choir’s performance of this piece in which he will be featured as a tenor soloist.

The Keystone Singers, a Millersville University ensemble of 36 students, conducted by Boyle will be accompanying The Bach Choir of Bethlehem during their performance. Due to one of Boyle’s predecessors’ previous work with The Bach Choir, also under the direction of Funfgeld on a performance of J.S. Bach's B Minor Mass, Millersville was once again invited to collaborate with the over 100-year-old choir. “Maestro Funfgeld and the musicians of the Bach Choir and Festival Orchestra are top shelf. It's an exciting opportunity for all of us!” said Boyle.

Boyle has not worked with The Bach Choir of Bethlehem in the past and is excited to do so, especially for his students. “When The Bach Choir contacted us asking if we could collaborate again on Elijah, we of course said yes as it is a great chance for our students to make music at the highest level.” There will be three performances – one located in Millersville, a second in Bethlehem and a third at Strathmore Hall, just outside of Washington, D.C. Elijah brings to life the story of the biblical prophet and his relationship with other figures in the Bible. The Bach Choir of Bethlehem will be performing the English version of the work.

“Everyone should take this opportunity to hear one of the most incredible choral/orchestral works of the 19th century live,” Boyle said. Due to the challenging and historic nature of this performance, hopes are high for great audience participation. Boyle is looking forward to the involvement of The Keystone singers and he is thrilled that the singers will get to take part in what he called an “incredible piece of art.”

The event is open to the public. Tickets cost $35 for general admission, $25 for reserved seating, $30 for seniors reserved seating and $10 for Millersville University students. For more information about this event, visit muticketsonline.com.