MOUNT VERNON – In a typical year, Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s Choral Union, along with many community members, would be practicing to perfection for the annual presentation of Handel’s Messiah.
As with many events in 2020, the performance has been postponed.
“COVID-19 restrictions for both rehearsals and audiences have made it difficult to prepare and present,” Dr. Bob Tocheff, music professor and "Messiah" conductor, said. “Because of our long-standing tradition, we are naturally disappointed, but we are hopeful and prayerful that we can reschedule for Spring semester 2021. We will monitor the status of the pandemic, as well as state and federal health guidelines, and make a final decision regarding a spring event by early spring.”
Realizing the annual event is the traditional start of the Christmas season for many families, MVNU is proud to make the 2019 performance of Handel’s "Messiah" available throughout the month of December. The on-demand presentation will be available at mvnu.edu/music beginning at 7 p.m. on Dec. 1, and will include a special message from Professor of Music and Choral Union Director Dr. Robert Tocheff and Vice President for University Relations the Rev. James Smith.
“We understand that Handel’s "Messiah" ushers in the Christmas season for many,” Tocheff said. “We want to provide this gift to the community as we all prepare to celebrate the coming of our King of kings and Lord of lords.
To contribute financially to the Music Department through the Friends of MVNU Music, please visit www.mvnu.edu/give.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional-age students, graduate students and working adults. With a 327-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education both in-seat and online to more than 2,100 students from 42 states and nine foreign countries.
