Performing a biblical oratorio written in 1741 seems like a big undertaking for even the most seasoned vocalist, but for an unrehearsed group of casual-drinking choristers, it’s a chance to come together in the spirit of music.
On Nov. 15 and 16, the Winnipeg Beer Choir is gathering at Young United Church to tackle George Frideric Handel’s Messiah, known for its recognizable “Hallelujah Chorus.”
“It’s about a two-hour long [event] that we put together with an orchestra and with soloists and, if you come out, then you’re part of the choir and you sing along with everybody,” co-organizer Ian Campbell said.
The Winnipeg Beer Choir has been gathering for several years, drinking beer and singing contemporary pop and traditional choral songs — unapologetically unrehearsed.
“I would describe it as an opportunity to get together and sing songs that you may or may not know, with a group of people who love doing the same thing,” Campbell said.
“It’s a great way to meet new people, and [have] an old-fashioned good time.”
Campbell and co-founder Katy Harmer — both U of M music faculty graduates — were inspired after witnessing a similar event while at a choral conference in Minneapolis, Minn., in 2015. They became the co-organizers of the Winnipeg chapter of the predominantly U.S. Beer Choir group.
Campbell describes the event as an important chance to gather like-minded people and build community.
“We have people that have met at Beer Choir, and they’re now Beer Choir friends,” he said.
“And we know that singing is really good for people’s mental health — just coming together and being in a group.”
While the beer is a major draw — and a basic part of the event — drinking is in no way mandatory.
Beer Choir welcomes singers of any age.
Campbell said 2018’s holiday sing-along was big and they expect to top it with this year’s event.
“[For last year’s Messiah event] we had a choir of 200 that just came together and crashed their way through this music,” he said.
If you can’t make it to this year’s Messiah performances, don’t worry — there are more Beer Choir events coming down the pipe for their 2019-20 season.
