Singers rehearse for Handel's Messiah

(FOX Providence) - For more than 50 years a group of local singers have been putting on masterful concerts in Rhode Island. Now, they are putting the finishing touches on a performance to kick off the holiday season.

About 90 singers rehearse on Wednesday evenings trying to hit every note and every key. For all of its members, being part of the Rhode Island Civic Chorale and Orchestra is the highlight of their week.

"There's nothing like being part of a group and singing. All of us are there to sing. Many of us have the music backgrounds, but we're not working professionally as musicians right now. So, the chance to come together and sing is invigorating. It's exciting," said Kathy Swann, President of the Board of RICCO .

It's an especially exciting time of year as the chorale prepares to sing Handel's Messiah, a holiday masterpiece.

"One of the great things about Messiah is that Handel wrote it in English. So, we don't use subtitles. You can come, you can follow the story," added Swann.

The man behind these voices is Dr. Edward Markward, who's been the conductor of the chorale and orchestra since 1987. He has a resume that would impress any performer and his students love performing for a man who is respected throughout the music community. The feeling is mutual.

"Well it's a marvelous thing in this country that community choirs come together. They leave their jobs after eight, 10 hours of working. They come and they pay for the privilege of singing. So, my heart is filled with admiration for these people because they're doing it for the love of the art form," said Markward.

The joys of singing bring camaraderie and an enthusiasm, and when combined with the sound of a full orchestra and world renowned soloists, its an unforgettable experience. But, its also a lot of hard work by its members. From rehearsing diligently and purchasing their own music to organizing fundraisers, the finished product is well worth it.

"My favorite thing to do is to conduct chorale and orchestra music," said Markward.

The chorale's big holiday performance is Saturday, November 27 at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul. For ticket information click here.