IDAHO FALLS — The Idaho Falls Symphony is proud to present a very special holiday performance of Handel’s “Messiah” on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Frontier Center for the Performing Arts, 501 S. Holmes Ave. in Idaho Falls. This performance, titled the “Sapphire Messiah,” marks the 75th anniversary of the symphony and will take place almost exactly 75 years to the day after its inaugural performance in December 1949.

To commemorate this monumental occasion, the concert will feature a stellar lineup of soloists, including Caitlin Gotimer (soprano), Kathleen Felty (alto), Philippe L’Esperance (tenor), and Michael Hix (bass). The performance will be further elevated by the collaboration of the Festival Choir, made up of talented vocalists from across the region, under the expert direction of Randall Kempton, who will conduct the choir. The Idaho Falls Symphony, conducted by Thomas Heuser, will provide a beautiful baroque orchestral accompaniment to bring this timeless holiday masterpiece to life.

Messiah by George Frideric Handel is one of the most beloved and frequently performed works in the choral-orchestral repertoire. Its majestic “Hallelujah” chorus has become synonymous with the holiday season. The 75th anniversary performance will showcase the splendor of Handel’s music, featuring both the grandeur of the full orchestra and the moving, intimate moments of the solo sections.

“This performance is not just a celebration of Messiah,” said Thomas Heuser, music director of the Idaho Falls Symphony. “It is a celebration of the rich musical heritage the symphony has built over 75 years and of the communities and musicians who have made this journey possible. We are thrilled to bring such an extraordinary work to our audience, with the expertise of world-class soloists and our Festival Choir, marking this historic milestone in the symphony’s history.”

The performance of “Messiah” will feature all of the iconic movements that have made the piece a cornerstone of the holiday season, including the powerful “For Unto Us a Child is Born,” the soul-stirring “I Know That My Redeemer Liveth,” and of course, the jubilant “Hallelujah” chorus, with the full participation of the Festival Choir.

Tickets for this highly anticipated concert are available now and can be purchased online at ifsymphony.org or by calling the Idaho Falls Symphony office at 208-529-1080.

Given the significance of this 75th anniversary celebration, tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so patrons are encouraged to secure their seats early.