Until the next season of Handel's Messiah performances, please see these websites for orchestra and chorus information:
Evanston Civic Orchestra
or
Evanston Civic Chorus

Saturday, September 8, 2012

The Van Camp Vocal Score

Chorus members need to have their own vocal score.  The preferred edition is published by Roger Dean Publishing Company and edited by Leonard Van Camp.  They are inexpensive and can be ordered through the local music store:

Blyth Art Gallery and Frame Shop                      
927 Main St.
Evanston, WY 82930                        
307-789-8974
10:00-5:30 Mon.-Thurs.
10:00-3:00 Fri. and Sat.


This edition of Messiah is preferred for the Evanston performance for several reasons, both scholarly and practical:
  • It was edited from Handel's autograph and conducting scores, so over 100 errors have been corrected that appear in previous editions, including the Schirmer.
  • It has been re-engraved in modern notation, giving the printed page a cleaner look and thus making it easier to read.
  • It includes measure numbers, which are helpful in rehearsal.
  • It includes breath marks and other useful editorial suggestions.
  • The keyboard accompaniment is more manageable than the accompaniment found in the Schirmer. 
by Sara