My sight-reading is rusty how can I practise before the event?

There are many ways to get to grips with the chorus parts of the Messiah. Listed on our Learn the Messiah page are various websites where you'll find sound files with Soprano, Alto, Tenor or Bass parts emphasised with which you can sing along.There is also a published set of CDs and parts for all the individual voices within the chorus which you can buy and it's called Messiah from Scratch and published by Faber. Have a look at the Learn the Messiah page!

I don't play one of the instruments on the list can I still join in?

I'm afraid the orchestration for this piece was created by Handel, not us, and the list on the Orchestra page is correct. So on this occasion flutes, clarinets and saxes and horns, trombones and tubas don't have parts in the Messiah.  Some of those instruments hadn't been invented in Handel's day. If you want to join in why not become a singer instead. It will be just as much fun. And look out for next year's event which will need all the instruments of the orchestra.

I can't come to all of the rehearsals what should I do?

We understand that some people will have other commitments over the course of a weekend.  If you have to miss a session don't worry but let us know so there is a seat on the platform on the night and you're always counted in. We will also discuss a reduced fee. 

What will happen in the Masterclasses?

Masterclasses will be for individuals who have signed up specially to do these and the application is separate from the Messiah participation and a small additional cost.  During the masterclasses participants will be asked to perform all,or part,of something they know and have already practised. The tutors will offer help, techniques, tips on these pieces. The participants and any friends and family may watch these sessions and it can be useful to hear ideas on other people's performance just as much as your own.  All our professional performers are kind, informal and highly skilled so don't be afraid.  Their aim is to offer any help they can. We will have pianists available to accompany but you are welcome to bring someone along if you've rehearsed in advance. If you do bring a pianist they will not have to pay to participate.

What is provided as part of my fee?

We will provide scores if you need them. We will also provide teas/coffees for breaks in rehearsals and a light lunch on Saturday and Sunday.

What do I need to bring?

Your voice or instrument most importantly.  Your own score or part if you have one. A music stand if you are an instrumentalist.  A pencil.  

What will we be wearing for the performance?

I could sing the Messiah in my sleep – I’ve done it loads of times before, sometimes as a soloist.  Why should I bother?

Most local choral societies will have sung the Messiah, sometimes as a scratch performance.  It’s so familiar that sometimes these can sound as though the choir IS singing in its sleep!  But this Black Isle Messiah weekend is a fresh and different approach to an old favourite.  Even if you think you know the piece well, it’s a chance to unpick it and put it back together again in the company of like-minded people, with separate rehearsals for instrumentalists and groups and a friendly and sociable atmosphere, light lunches included.  The team of professionals leading the experience are well-known international performers who have chosen to come and spend their time with us in Fortrose – all to help you get the best out of your voice or instrument.  It’s also an occasion we hope to repeat – we’re already thinking about an opera gala workshop for next time.  So if you don’t participate this time, you may have missed out on the beginning of something rather special!