Masterworks Chorale celebrates the launch of its 50th anniversary year with this weekend's Elijah by Mendelssohn, the first time in the organization's history.
Conducted by Bryan Baker, the Chorale's 101 singers, an orchestra of 34, and five soloists will perform the great 19th century oratorio, with baritone Kirk Eichelberger as Elijah.
Mendelssohn set to magnificent music the epic Biblical story about struggles on behalf of different gods, the devastation from hurricanes, earthquakes, and a pillar of fire descending upon the sacrificial altar, and the final ascent to heaven in a chariot of fire.
Performances are at 8 p.m. on Nov. 9 and 4 p.m. on Nov. 10, both in the Woodside High School Performing Arts Center.