Mendelssohn ELIJAH

Few oratorios reach the dramatic heights of Felix Mendelssohn’s biggest choral work, with battles between rival deities and the prophet’s ascent to heaven in a choral chariot of fire. Peter Butterfield conducts the Victoria Philharmonic Choir, orchestra and a roster of noted Canadian soloists. Renowned operatic baritone Russell Braun has a distinguished career on leading concert, opera and recital stages around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera and the Salzburg Festival. From the Ottawa Citizen (2016):
From his first commanding declaration, Braun simply was Elijah: at turns prophetic and stern, mocking and vengeful, and full of care and concern. Above all, Braun made the almost operatic story come alive.”

Soprano Melody Courage and mezzo-soprano Emma Parkinson recently appeared in Pacific Opera Victoria’s production of The Little Prince, and tenor Jean-Philippe Lazure is in demand as a soloist with orchestras and choirs throughout Canada. The role of the Youth will be sung by Maya Badel, a member of the Christ Church Cathedral Chorister program.

Although this production doesn’t involve 400 choristers and 125 players as Mendelssohn conducted at the work’s premiere in Birmingham in 1846, the composer’s own genius infused with the spirit of his musical heroes Bach and Handel will make it an evening to remember.