Campus Connection

Those who think George Frideric Handel’s oratorio “Messiah” contained the best choral music he wrote should probably think again, says UW-La Crosse Music Professor Gary Walth. The UW-L Choral Union will provide a chance to hear another outstanding choral work by Handel, his setting of “Dixit Dominus.” The university-community choir will perform the work at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, in Annett Recital Hall, Center for the Arts. Walth, Choral Union conductor, and most in the ensemble agree that this composition, completed when the composer was 23 and living in Italy, is more challenging and ultimately just as satisfying or more so than any “Messiah” chorus. “Dixit Dominus” also includes wonderful vocal solo writing, sung in this performance by Alyah Richling, Jane Eckstein Murphy, Jewell Aagard, Nancy Matchett and Allison Langer. Contralto Jane Powell will also be featured along with tenors Jason Bernhagen, Randy Dart and bass/baritone Brady Langer. Alethia Kenworthy will be the continuo keyboardist and David Phipps will be the orchestra’s concertmaster. General admission is $6 for students, $8 for senior citizens and $10 for others. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling the UW-L Music Department at 608.785.8415. If you go— What: Concert — George Frideric Handel’s “Dixit Dominus” Who: UW-L Choral Union When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14 Where: Annett Recital Hall, Center for the Arts Admission: $6 for students, $8 for senior citizens and $10 for others. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling 608.785.8415.