Culross Abbey Backdrop for Handel’s Messiah

A former Cistercian Abbey in Fife, founded in 1271, will be the atmospheric setting for a Palm Sunday performance of Handel’s Messiah, by Glasgow Chamber Choir and Orchestra.

A former Cistercian Abbey in Fife, founded in 1271, will be the atmospheric setting for a Palm Sunday performance of Handel’s Messiah, by Glasgow Chamber Choir and Orchestra.

Culross Abbey, now a parish church with the Rev. Jayne Scott as Minister, will resound with Handel’s most popular oratorio, which, though often heard at Christmas, was written for Easter and was first performed in Dublin in April 1742. Listeners will hear of Christ’s nativity, passion, resurrection and ascension in an orchestral performance conducted by Michael Bawtree and featuring young soloists.

Dunfermline SNP MSP Bill Walker, whose constituency includes Culross, said: 

“Culross Abbey will be the perfect backdrop for this beautiful oratorio. It’s an inspiring location. This is great news for Minister Jayne Scott and her parishioners, and it should also attract a lot of visitors to the village.”

He added: “Glasgow Chamber Choir and Orchestra is one of Scotland’s most renowned amateur choirs. I look forward to them coming to Fife and am sure they will enjoy visiting the Abbey.”

The performance will begin at 4:00pm on Sunday 1^st April 2012. Ticket are £10 and can be obtained by calling 01383 882 213. Alternatively, email:  culrossandtorryburnchurch@btconnect.com.