Hello and Happy Holidays! I’m delighted to write a review on this past Sunday’s performance of Messiah by the newly formed Tahoe-Philharmonic Orchestra & Chorus, conducted by James Rawie. This was the 19th year that Messiah has been performed in South Lake Tahoe. 132 people attended this performance at Mountain House Church, a new beautiful, and warm venue. James’ lovely wife Nancy always opens their shows with a welcoming smile and some interesting background information that puts the audience at ease.

Director James steps forward with a short introductory lecture, his witty, down-to-earth personality engages the audience, getting us ready for what we sense will be a great afternoon. And wow, was it ever! Stunning soloists resplendent in red velvet (my two dear friends Annie & Ania!) brought down the house over and over again in the next two hours. Baritone Stuart Duke has such a presence – truly a consummate professional. I get so excited whenever the Chorus stands up to belt it out, goosebumps! The diversity of the performers is so special, like 19-year-old Noah from Reno, on the Timpani; these performers travel from far away to entertain us in Tahoe, like the two violinists who finally made it through traffic from Sacramento after the snowstorm the day before. Some comments from my friends at Intermission: “An honor to be in the presence of these musicians”; “So touching, I have tears in my eyes”; “Absolutely loving it!” “Our spirits are lifted!”

As with all of James’ performances, the audience is encouraged to sing along in parts, our voices joined with the harmonious and mellifluous voices of the professionals, we felt included! This holiday show is a wonderful mix of secular and religious music, and even the kids in the audience stayed awake; Youth 23 and under are always FREE (general admission seats) at these concerts!

The group is performing Messiah again this Friday, December 20 at St. Francis Catholic Church in Incline Village at 6:30 p.m., then the final performance on Sunday, December 22 at Christian Fellowship Church in Reno at 3 p.m. Spread the word! Make it a Day Trip!

The 2025 Season has quite the lineup of performances. Visit their website for the most recent information and tickets www.Tahoe-Philharmonic.org.

Musically yours,
Michelle Gomez
Tahoe Art League