Fresh. Invigorated. Relevant. Powerful. One of the most adored works of music celebrating Christmas is approached with a fresh spirit by a collective of soloists and a chamber choir of Colorado’s finest professional singers.

Boulder Bach Festival presents its CORE musical artists in a reimagined rendition of the Christmas portion from Handel’s Messiah. The performance begins with two Christmastime a cappella works performed by chamber choir, and continues with a delightful and imaginative violin concerto written by Antonio Vivaldi, played with ornamentation and embellishments by Zachary Carrettin. Keith Barnhart’s baroque guitar continuo playing adds rhythmic zest to the accompaniment.

BBF’s 16-piece professional choir is joined by baroque string orchestra with harpsichord and chamber organ. This is a rare opportunity to hear the work performed without conductor by an ultra-communicative ensemble. Vocal soloists include Mara Riley, Sarah Moyer, Claire McCahan, Daniel Hutchings, and Adam Ewing; the soloists perform in the chamber choir as well.

Two years ago, BBF presented Carrettin’s edition of this work with one-per-part instruments and voices, in an intimate “oratory” style. Retaining that approach overall, this time the riveting choruses will feature an expanded vocal ensemble, offering powerful verve and contrast to the arias.