Mark your calender for “Messiah” December 15

San Juan County is extremely fortunate, given its rural population, to have a tradition of performing Handel’s “Messiah” every Christmas for over four decades.  

Past directors include Jonnie Bailey, Pete Henderson, Derryl Jack, Duane Lyman, and Wayne Erickson. Thanks to their selfless giving of time, energy, and talent, strong momentum has been created to perform this hallmark work celebrating the birth and mission of the Lord Jesus Christ.  

This Christmas, they have the honor of presenting “Messiah” under the direction of Jake Palmer.  It will be his first year directing “Messiah.”  

Palmer is the much-loved director of band and choral music at Monticello High School.  He and his wife, Brianna, earned Bachelor’s degrees in music and performance from Snow College and make a dynamic duo when it comes to all things musical.

Orchestra members and singers from all over the county have been preparing since October for a successful performance. There is new talent singing solos this year, as well as many experienced favorites.

“Messiah” will be performed in Blanding on December 15 at 7 p.m., at the Blanding Stake Center of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This will be the only performance.  

Come and be a part of this wonderful Christmas tradition honoring Christ’s triumph over sin and death. The performance is free and open to all.