NEWCASTLE

St. Cecilia Chamber Choir continues their 20th season celebration with Handel’s Messiah, Part I. A favorite of audiences and performers alike, this time-honored masterpiece will be performed with professional soloists and orchestra. Also on the program is the premiere of new music by Maine composer Richard Francis, commissioned for the occasion.

Auditions for all voice parts are scheduled by appointment. The ability to read music is preferred, but those who cannot read may participate by spending extra time learning the music at home with the aid of provided practice materials. Gifted student singers are especially encouraged to audition. To schedule an audition, call director Linda Blanchard at (207) 380-2768 or email [email protected].

Rehearsals are in Newcastle from 7-9 p.m. on Wednesday nights at St. Andrew’s Church. The choir is directed by Linda Blanchard and accompanied by Sean Fleming, both of Damariscotta.

St. Cecilia Chamber Choir is a fully auditioned community chorus based in Newcastle and founded in 1995. Their mission is to present outstanding performances of the very best choral repertoire; to provide challenging musical opportunities to gifted local youth; to support the community with outreach programs; and to support Maine composers through the commission and performance of new music. For more information about the choir, visit their website at ceciliachoir.org