Mendelssohn Elijah

February 26, 2023

4:00pm – 6:30pm

Coordinator:  Peggy Betttcher

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Rivermont’s Sanctuary Choir will present two compelling performances of Mendelssohn’s dramatic oratorio, Elijah, on Saturday, February 25, at 4:00 pm, and Sunday, February 26, at 4:00 pm. 

The 60-voice choir will be joined by a 30-piece orchestra comprised of area musicians, including those from Liberty University and the Lynchburg Symphony.

Professional soloists are James Wood (Elijah), Adelaide Trombetta (soprano), Brian Thorsett (tenor), and Cecelia McKinley (alto).  

An oratorio is a large-scale musical work for orchestra and voices, typically a narrative on a religious theme, and performed without the use of costumes, scenery, or action in order that the Biblical text might predominate. Mendelssohn was intrigued about the personage of Elijah, and in 1845-46 composed this work for the Birmingham Festival in London.  Mendelssohn was moved by the drama of the narrative, the atmosphere of the conflicting religions, and the powerfully vivid character of the protagonist.  He felt that the dramatic element should predominate, as he thought it should in all Old Testament subjects.  Part One contains much of the dramatic action as Elijah performs great deeds and miracles.  Part Two focuses more on Elijah’s inner struggles, his fears, frustrations, and his disappointments.  

Admission is free and open to the public.  No reserved seating.  Doors open at 3:30 pm.  Nursery will NOT be provided. Both performances will be live-streamed, click here.

The church is located at 2424 Rivermont Ave., Lynchburg VA 24503.  For questions please call 434-846-3441 x14.