Tucker church plans huge 'Messiah' sing-along

Each holiday season singers bring their own scores and join in for a "Messiah" sing-along at area churches. This one was at Roswell United Methodist Church a few years ago.

Credit: Shelia Poole

Credit: Shelia Poole

Each holiday season singers bring their own scores and join in for a "Messiah" sing-along at area churches. This one was at Roswell United Methodist Church a few years ago.

By SHELIA POOLE

George Frideric Handel would be proud.

Lawrenceville Road United Methodist Church in Tucker is  planning its first community-wide "Messiah" sing-along of the oratorio that is standard Christmas musical fare in just about every church or school program.

The event will be held from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 4 at the church, 3142 Lawrenceville Highway.

Each holiday season singers bring their own scores and join in for a "Messiah" sing-along at area churches. This one was at Roswell United Methodist Church a few years ago.

Credit: Shelia Poole

icon to expand image

Credit: Shelia Poole

Jack Sartain, producer for United Methodist Men and the "Music for Missions" program, said he expects about 200 people to participate. He's basically reached out to nearly every church, choral group, school and civic organization in five zip codes (and friends who knew would be interested) to participate.

"I just invited them to come out and sing," said Sartain, who said there won't be any solo spots.

All you need is your voice and a copy of the G. Schirmer

version, if possible. There will also be a small orchestra to "give support and energy" to the performance.

While the event is free, Sartain is asking for donations to cover some of the costs.

"I want to fill this place up," said Sartain, a retired hospital administrator. "We look at this as an opportunity to celebrate Advent and Christmas with people who want to do so with music."