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The concert, co-directed by William B. Richter and Elizabeth Chapman Reilly, features an eighty-member chorus with orchestra.

Mar. 20, 2023  

Pilgrim Festival Chorus (PFC), the region’s principal community chorus, presents its spring season concert, “Israel in Egypt,” on Saturday, April 29, 7:30 pm, and Sunday, April 30, 4 pm, at St. Bonaventure Parish, 803 State Road, Plymouth. The concert, co-directed by William B. Richter and Elizabeth Chapman Reilly, features an eighty-member chorus with orchestra.

George Frideric Handel, one of the great composers of the Baroque period, wrote the epic work “Israel in Egypt” in 1738. Aside from “Messiah,” it is considered his most popular oratorio. “Israel in Egypt” unfolds the heroic story of Moses leading the Israelites as they escaped from captivity in Egypt. With dramatic artistry, Handel depicts the ten plagues visited upon the Egyptians, including an invasion of frogs, flies, and lice, thick darkness, rivers of blood, and hailstones. Notable for its use of choruses, the work also includes solo movements sung by talented PFC member singers.

Since 1999, PFC has delighted South Shore audiences with classical programming. Vocalists of all adult ages fill out the ensemble, dedicated to authentic choral singing. In June, PFC presents performances of “American Voices – Celebrating Our American Heritage,” concerts exploring patriotic and folk music by American composers. In December, PFC presents its annual holiday season concert and a Messiah Sing.