Alleghany Highlands Chorale Prepares For Holiday Concert, Dec. 7th   Covington, VA (Nov. 26, 2025) - The Alleghany Highlands Arts Council will present the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and Chorus performing Part 1 of George Frideric Handel’s masterwork, MESSIAH, on Wednesday evening, December 17, at 7:00 pm in Curfman Hall at Covington Middle School. This hallmark of the holiday season features world-renowned soloists Adelaide Trombetta, Soprano; Cecelia McKinley, Alto; Brian Thorsett, Tenor; and Daryl Duff, Bass. Chorusmaster John Hugo, chair of the music department at Liberty University, has prepared the chorus and, of course, Maestro David Stewart Wiley is at the podium Maestro Wiley, a favorite here in the Alleghany Highlands, is a celebrated conductor, composer, and pianist who has served as the Music Director and Conductor of the RSO since 1996. In addition to his work in Roanoke, he serves as the Music Director of Orchestra Long Island in New York and the Artistic Director of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Music Festival. A versatile artist, he has guest-conducted major orchestras worldwide, including the Boston Pops, where he made a rare triple debut as conductor, composer, and piano soloist. Handel’s MESSIAH Part 1 is also known as the Christmas portion and features some of the oratorio's most beloved music, like "For unto us a Child is born," which serves as the energetic centerpiece of the nativity story. From the opening tenor aria "Ev'ry valley shall be exalted" to the virtuosic soprano aria "Rejoice greatly," and the pastoral duet "He shall feed His flock," this concert offers a moment of profound serenity. The work ends with the thunderous “Hallelujah” chorus, leaving the audience on its feet and filled with the spirit of the holiday. Tickets are $30 and on sale now at www.arts4allalleghanyhighlands.com or at the door the evening of the event. There is a discount for singers in local choirs. Call the Arts Council at 540-962-ARTS (2787) for more information and arrange handicap seating if needed. This performance is funded by a grant from the Virginia Commission for the Arts and The Alleghany Foundation.

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