Pend Oreille Chorale and Orchestra sets 'Messiah' rehearsals
Bonner County Daily Bee | UPDATED 1 hour, 24 minutes AGO
Pictured are members of the Pend Oreille Chorale and Orchestra at a past concert.
(Courtesy photo)
Thirty-three years ago, the North Idaho Chorale and Orchestra of Sandpoint was founded with the mission to provide uplifting, free classical music concerts to the people of North Idaho, and they have done just that.
Now known as Pend Oreille Chorale and Orchestra, these musicians started with performances of Handel's "Messiah." This winter — Friday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 20, at 3 p.m. — the groups will present their final scheduled free concerts at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on North Boyer in Sandpoint.
"We began our programs with the "Messiah" in 1993," said director Mark Reiner and co-founder Caren Reiner. "We thought it appropriate to end the 33 years where we started. We hope to have a nice-sized chorale and orchestra, as many musicians already know this piece and look forward to presenting this oratorio again as we have to our community many times in the past.
Handel's "Messiah" was composed in 23 days in 1742. It was first performed in Dublin to enthusiastic audiences.
Using local volunteer talent, POCO has provided a basis of orchestral experience to many young musicians, all of whom POCO has given a scholarship for their future plans. Some have gone on to play in national orchestras. Experienced musicians are invited to play with the orchestra. Rehearsals begin on Sunday, Nov. 1 at 2 p.m. and every following Sunday at the LDS church. Music will be provided.
Choir practices will begin Oct. 5 at the LDS church at 6 p.m., and all Mondays following. If you have your own score, please bring it. We will have a limited number on hand.
The Pend Oreille Chorale and Orchestra is strictly nondenominational and welcomes anyone who wants to join.
"A major part of our mission has been to bring together people from all religious, political and social viewpoints to perform together in a single uplifting cause," Mark Reiner said.
The Reiners thanked everyone who, over the decades, has supported the groups' musical mission, as well as the churches which have provided free rehearsal and performance space.
For more information on orchestra: call 208-603-1277, call 208-946-9306 for choir.