Newport's Swanhurst Chorus has for the last decade, offered local concert-goers the season tradition of a "Messiah and Carol Sing", providing the opportunity to both hear and participate in this perennial favorite. Held at Emmanuel Episcopal Church on Dearborn and Spring Streets in The City by the Sea, the evening features the more popular choruses from the Christmas portion of Messiah - "For Unto Us a Child is Born", "And He Shall Purify", "And the Glory of the Lord", "O Thou that Tellest", "Glory to God in the Highest", and of course, the "Hallelujah" chorus sung by Swanhurst's choristers with participation by any audience members who are so inclined - as well as selected arias from the oratorio.

That's not all, however . . . sprinkled liberally throughout the program are favorite carols ranging from "Hark! The herald angels sing" to "O little town of Bethlehem" and "Joy to the world", sung by the masses. Add to this music of the season played on Emmanuel Church's majestic organ, featured appearances by the 18 voice a-capella Swanhurst Chamber Singers, and a festive reception complete to vast quantities of sinful goodies, and you are in for a wonderful evening of holiday spirit.

Swanhurst Chorus is Rhode Island's longest continually performing choral ensemble, calling Newport County home since 1928 when a portion of funds bequeathed by Sarah Swan Whiting's estate, named "Swanhurst", were used to establish a Swanhurst School of Arts. Averaging a membership of 70-80 singers, Swanhurst is a mixed voice choir of all ages dedicated to keeping the choral tradition alive.

A typical season offers up to 5 events ranging from a major classical choral work to a Broadway Musical Revue and Dinner Show in March, to an afternoon a-capella concert by the Swanhurst Chamber Singers in June.

For more information, contact Swanhurst Chorus at 401-682-1630 or ww.swanhurst.org.

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