IN 1741, George Frederick Handel wrote two masterpieces. One was Messiah; the other, Samson.
Last December, Wetherby Choral Society performed the first; now, musical director John Dunford and the members of this choir are rehearsing the second for a 7.30pm performance on Saturday at St James's Parish Church, Wetherby.
Adapted from the text of John Milton's poem Samson Agonistes, the Samson oratorio dramatises the hero's inner struggle in the last days of his life.
"With the title role described as 'one of the juiciest assignments for an operatic tenor'; with grand orchestral colour and wonderfully rich vocal writing, Samson is considered to be one of Handel's finest works," says publicity officer and secretary Anne Sweet.
The soloists will be soprano Sarah Power, alto Charlotte Tetley, tenor Stephen Newlove and bass Tom Asher and orchestral accompaniment will be provided by the Orchestra Pro Musica.
Tickets are available at £14 from John and Marion Davies on 01937 583126, any member of the choir or the St James's Church office.
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