Concerts tap into classic inspirational music

The Glacier Symphony’s “This Sacred Season and Messiah” concerts in Whitefish and Kalispell will offer a delightful assortment of sacred music for the season with a program focused on highlights from Handel’s “Messiah.” The concert includes inspiring works by Johann Sebastian Bach, English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams and American composers Morten Lauridsen and Eric Whitacre. Also on the program will be the premiere of “A Christmas Round,” composed by John Zoltek.

The performance will feature both the chorale, led by Chorale Conductor Micah Hunter, and the combined chorale with orchestra, under the baton of Glacier Symphony Director John Zoltek. Hunter will also make a special appearance as baritone soloist in Vaughan Williams’ “Fantasia on Christmas Carols,” a beautiful work based upon traditional English carols for chorus and orchestra with soloist.

Following intermission, audiences will be treated to the finest moments from Handel’s masterpiece “Messiah,” among them “And The Glory Of The Lord,” “Unto Us A Child Is Born,” “Glory To God,” and the ultimate, “Hallelujah Chorus.”

December performances by the orchestra and chorale are among the most popular of the Glacier Symphony’s concert season.

“Many families attend as part of their holiday traditions,” Zoltek said. “And the Glacier Symphony would like to invite our community to join us for this performance that we hope will enrich your Christmas celebrations! It’s a great time to discover the uplifting and inspirational experience of live classical music.”

The Glacier Symphony’s annual vacation raffle drawing will take place during intermission at Sunday’s concert at Flathead High School. In addition to supporting the organization, with only 1,000 tickets sold the odds are great for someone to win a fabulous trip to New York City, Ireland, Iceland or a destination of their choice. To purchase a raffle ticket at $100 each or six for $500, call the GSC Box Office at 406-407-7000.