'Messiah' soloists are announced

Auditions for soloists singing Handel’s “Messiah” with the Pend Oreille Chorale and Orchestra were held recently.

Soprano soloists are Deanna Benton, Michelle Handy, Franci Marks, Laura Peterson, and Caren Reiner.

Alto soloists are Rhonda Backman, Rachel Castor, and Debra Douglas.

Tenor soloist is Doug Fluckiger; baritone, John Fitzgerald; and bass, Alan Ball.

The orchestra has been rehearsing since September and the chorale since October. Free concerts will be presented in Sandpoint at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Friday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 11, at 3 p.m.

“We have been working hard to make these concerts of the highest caliber possible with the all-volunteer musicians we have in these community groups. This oratorio is technically difficult so the commitment to practice is absolutely necessary,” said director Mark Reiner. “‘The Messiah’ is so well-known, we want to do it justice.”

Start your holiday season by attending one of the free “Messiah” concerts presented Dec. 9 and 11.