George Frederick Handel's enduring masterpiece, "Messiah," will be presented at the Bryan College Christmas concerts Friday and Saturday, Dec. 7 and 8, in Rudd Auditorium.
Professor of Music Dr. David Luther said the 84-voice Bryan Chorale, with solos by two students, two faculty members, and two guests, will perform the work that tells the Gospel story in words from the Bible set to music. Vocalists will be accompanied by a chamber orchestra, all under the direction of Dr. Luther.

"We generally perform "Messiah" every four years, but it has been six year since our previous performance," Dr. Luther said. "Several alumni, parents of students, as well as Dr. Livesay, the Bryan College president, encouraged me to include it this year."

Beginning with prophetic pronouncements about the Messiah from Old Testament scriptures, the oratorio moves to the New Testament accounts of Christ's birth, death, and resurrection, and the promise of His second coming.

Soloists for "Messiah" include Bryan Music Professor Kimberly Keck and student Natalie Hughes, sopranos; adjunct faculty member Sally Powell, alto; guest performers Michael Mays, tenor, and Brett Hyberger, bass; and student Randy Bright, bass.

The Friday performance will be preceded by a dinner, by reservation only. Reservations may be made online at www.bryan.edu/christmasdinner. Tickets for "Messiah" will be available beginning Nov. 21 by calling 423-775-7271.