Clearlakes Chorale plans ‘Messiah’ for winter show

WOLFEBORO — Rehearsals begin Thursday, Sept. 4, for Clearlakes Chorale, Wolfeboro’s community chorus now in its 43rd season.

The group will present Handel’s “Messiah” at its December performances, and invites anyone with a joy and talent for singing to join them this season. No audition is required. Rehearsals are every Thursday evening at the First Congregational Church on South Main Street in Wolfeboro. 

The Sept. 4 and Sept. 11 rehearsals begin at 6 p.m., then switch to 6:30-8:30 p.m. for the remainder of the fall.

“We welcome anyone who might be interested in joining to come to the first rehearsal, have some refreshments, and get a feel for the group before making a commitment,” said Board Member Carrie Kinzlmaier. “And anyone who has sung Messiah with us in the past is invited to rejoin. It will be incredible to practice and perform one of the greatest pieces in choral music together.” Performances will be Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6 and 7.

“I look forward to singing together every Thursday night…it is such a great antidote to any stress I may be feeling that week,” said soprano Board member Suzanne Morrissey, who joined three years ago when she wanted to regain the fun of singing with her college choir. “I encourage anyone who enjoyed singing in school to think about joining us…it really all comes back, like riding a bike.” 

Clearlakes Chorale has about 45 members, split among soprano, alto, tenor, and bass sections.

“We’re a little low on tenors, so I hope singers in that range will give us a try,” said Board member Bruce McCracken.

The group typically does a mixture of popular and classical pieces, but the Winter 2025 season will be devoted to “Messiah,” Handel’s theatrical oratorio known for its beloved and inspirational “Hallelujah Chorus,” first performed in 1742. For more information, contact clearlakeschoralenh@gmail.com.