ROCKFORD—The Rockford community’s 77th annual performances of George Frideric Handel's "Messiah" will be held the weekend of Nov. 25 and 26, both days at 3 p.m., at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave. 

 

About 65 singers representing many churches in the greater Rockford area will sing. They will be supported by a full baroque orchestra, harpsichord, organ, trumpet and four professional soloists. 

 

The concert is presented by the Rockford Choral Union. These concerts were performed first in 1945 as a gift to the community especially to veterans returning from the war. With the exception of 2020's Covid interruption, these concerts have been given every year since 1945. 

 

The concert is free; no tickets are required. Seating is as available. Doors open about 2:30 p.m. Parking is available at city lots, the two funeral homes nearby and Nicholson Hardware as well as a few spaces at the church. Website: rockfordchoralunion.com