By Frank Giordano

Special to The Pilot

For the third consecutive year, the Carolina Philharmonic, conducted by Maestro David Michael Wolff, will present George Frideric Handel's classic oratorio "Messiah."

The upcoming performance, Monday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m. in the Robert E. Lee Auditorium, features a 32-piece orchestra, guest soloists and an ecumenical chorus of superb voices.

Handel's "Messiah" is a commentary on the nativity, passion, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. The soloists and chorus in "Messiah" do not assume dramatic roles, but Wolff employs some splendid soloists to dramatize what librettist Charles Jennens conceived as the "Mystery of Godliness."

"Take a break from Santa and Frosty and Rudolph, and come hear for yourself the work that celebrates the true reason for the Christmas season," says a spokesman. "For last year's 'Messiah' the Carolina Philharmonic gave its richest, most colorful concert since its inception. Their great strides forward this past season promise that this upcoming performance will transcend all their previous work."

Tickets are available at (910) 687 4746 or www.shop. carolinaphil.org.

The Carolina Philharmonic is a 501(c)(3), with a mission to bring the joy of exceptional music to the youth of the Sandhills.