Since 1858 presenting choral masterworks and commissioned works; for well over 100 years the annual Messiah holiday concert; a rich heritage and grand tradition, as an integral part of the Worcester Music Festival!

Saturday, December 3, 2011 at 8:00 PM

Handel's Messiah

Christopher Shepard, Artistic Director, special guest Soloists, and Festival Orchestra

a Worcester Holiday Tradition at Mechanics Hall

George Frederick Handel's masterwork, The Messiah, has ushered in the holiday season in Central Massachusetts for well over 100 years!  Performed in the elegance and acoustic perfection of Worcester's Mechanics Hall which is always decorated for a festive atmosphere, with the full experience of the 100+ voices of The Worcester Chorus, accompanied by a full orchestra, and featuring some of the best vocal soloists in the area, this concert has meant the spirit of the season to many for generations. 

Start your own tradition this year!!  Treat yourself; treat your family.  This is some of the most beautiful music ever written for the human voice.  Join the throng and be moved.

Saturday, February 18, 2012 at 8:00 PM

Bach's B-Minor Mass

Christopher Shepard, Artistic Director, Arcadia Players, Ian Watson, Artistic Director

With Holy Cross College Chamber Choir & Guest Soloists at Mechanics Hall

A glorious masterpiece of choral music, the B-Minor Mass by J.S.Bach is one of the jewels in the crown of Bach repertoire.  Artistic Director Christopher Shepard shows his prodigious skills on the Festival stage at Mechanics Hall as he leads the 100+ voices of The Worcester Chorus and guest soloists in one of the most loved choral works.

Sunday, June 3, 2012 at 4:00 PM on Sunday

Carl Orff's Carmina Burana

Christopher Shepard, Artistic Director

with The Worcester Children's Chorus and Special Guest Soloists at Mechanics Hall

Sometimes called a "dramatic cantata", the Carmina Burana is based upon a group of 13th century poems that were discovered in the Benedictine monastery of Beuren in Bavaria.  Written in medieval Latin and middle high German, yet this is one of the most recognizable of choral works because the "O Fortuna" section has been used in countless movies, television, and commercial productions over the years.  The collection of music is full of humor and intensity, both ribald and romantic, celebrating wine, women, song, Spring, and the fickleness of fate!