By Elke Porter | Westcoast German News | April 28, 2025
While contemporary German musicians seem to be rare on Canadian stages these days, thankfully the historic masters are still more than willing to share their timeless brilliance. This spring, the United Voices Choir is stepping forward to celebrate the enduring legacy of one of Germany’s most famous composers, George Frideric Handel.
On Saturday, May 31, 2025 (2 p.m. at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 1130 Jervis Street, Vancouver) and Sunday, June 1, 2025 (7 p.m. at Pacific Spirit United Church, 2195 West 45th Avenue, Vancouver), the 65-voice United Voices Choir will perform two of Handel’s magnificent choral masterpieces: the jubilant Coronation Anthems and the thrilling Dixit Dominus.
Under the skilled direction of Dr. Greg Caisley, the choir will be joined by a professional orchestra and a stellar lineup of soloists: Dory Hayley (soprano 1), Melissa Howell (soprano 2), Jonathan Michel (tenor), Erik Kallo (countertenor), and David Rosborough (bass). Together, they promise to deliver an exhilarating and uplifting musical experience.
Handel’s Coronation Anthems, commissioned in 1727 for the crowning of King George II and Queen Caroline of Great Britain, are joyous and bold, perfectly suited for grand occasions. The anthem Zadok the Priest has become particularly iconic, still performed at every British coronation since its debut.
Meanwhile, Dixit Dominus, composed by a young Handel at just 22 years old during his time in Italy, showcases his youthful virtuosity and fiery energy. Full of dramatic contrasts and vibrant choral writing, it remains one of his most dazzling works.
The program includes:
- Dixit Dominus
- Let Thy Hand Be Strengthened
- Zadok the Priest
- The King Shall Rejoice
- My Heart Is Inditing
Tickets are available now at www.voiceschoir.ca for $32 regular and $15 youth (+ service charges).
United Voices Choir, based in Vancouver, is known for its grand performances of classical masterworks accompanied by orchestra and soloists. Their repertoire spans the works of Bach, Mozart, Brahms, Vivaldi, Haydn, Fauré, and of course, Handel.
As modern German musicians remain relatively quiet on Canadian soil, Vancouver audiences can take heart in the opportunity to experience the historic greatness of Handel live in concert — a joyous reminder that musical genius truly knows no bounds of time or place.
For more information, contact marketing@voiceschoir.ca.
Exciting News From the Website of United Voices Choir!
Mid sized choir often accompanied by professional orchestra seeks Tenors (of any gender).
We are diverse, friendly, mostly amateurs
who are capable and keen to learn classical repertoire and love to sing and perform.
You love to sing, like the idea of being part of a critical section
and can commit to weekly rehearsals.
Previous choral experience and sight-reading ability are assets
but you do not have to be Pavarotti.
If this sounds interesting, please contact us through info@voiceschoir.ca or fill out this form.
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