Yale Wiffenpoofs + "Messiah" Sing-In: Dec 18

by Anne Herman

(December 8, 2005) What do the young Whiffenpoofs of Yale have in common with the 250-year old Handel’s '"Messiah"? They will share the stage at the Mamaroneck United Methodist Church’s “Holiday Celebration” on Sunday, December 18 at 4 pm. The Wiffenpoofs will begin the program with a concert of special seasonal songs. Then, Thomas Crawford will conduct the American Classical Orchestra and soloists as they lead a "Messiah" Sing-In for everyone in the audience. Following the concert and sing-in, all will be treated to refreshments at a reception in the lower church parlor.

The Yale Wiffenpoofs will sing on December 18.

The Whiffenpoofs, consisting of 14 Yale senior men, are the world's oldest and best-known collegiate a cappella singing group. Founded in 1909, the "Whiffs" began as a senior quartet that met for weekly concerts at Mory's Temple Bar, the famous Yale tavern. The group, which has become one of Yale's most celebrated and hallowed traditions, will be entertaining at the celebration on December 18.

The "Messiah' Sing-In will feature a special element: accompaniment by the same types of instruments Handel used in his own orchestra. The instruments used by the professional American Classical orchestra are all original or restored 17th or 18th century period pieces. “The nuances of original instruments provide an authentic beauty of sound to the music,” said Tom Crawford, founder and director of the ACO, the premier original instrument orchestra of the metropolitan region since 1985.

Career Bridges Foundation is providing the soloists for the Messiah. Soprano Molly Davey, a graduate of S.U.N.Y. Purchase College/ Conservatory, has recently performed at the Purchase Conservatory Opera and the Delphi Theatre. Alto Joseryl Beckley, is a native of Sierra Leone, an alumna of Indiana University and a participant in the Ezio Pinza Opera Council in Oderzo Italy.

Tenor Joshua Benevento started his professional career with a vocal role in HBO’s "The Sopranos". However, he has since had extensive experience in opera and oratorio roles, winning the 2004 National Opera Association Award for his performance in "Hansel and Gretel". Bass John Dominick III has performed title roles such as Don Alfonso from "Cosi Fan Tutte" and Sparafucile from "Rigoletto" with opera companies such as the New York City Opera and the Delaware Valley Opera, among many.

The Mamaroneck United Methodist Church will be offering a warm welcome to all for the concert, sing-in and reception. Some advice: Come early to get a seat. Suggested contribution: $20. For more information contact the Mamaroneck United Methodist Church: www.mamaroneckumc.org 914-698-4343

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