(Posted April 26, 2004)

HUNTINGDON, Pa. -- The Juniata College Choral Union will present a concert singing one of composer Josef Haydn's most acclaimed masses, "Heiligmesse," at its spring concert at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 27, in Rosenberger Auditorium in Oller Hall on the Juniata College campus.

There is a $5 general admission charge and a $3 charge for students. Tickets are available at the door.

The Choral Union is conducted by Russell Shelley, Elma Stine Heckler Associate Professor of Music.

"Heiligmesse" is one of Haydn's six late masses, composed between 1796 and 1802. These masses are known for an optimistic musical quality.

Haydn, born in 1782, started his musical career as a choirboy in a Vienna cathedral. He later became court composer to the royal Esterhazy family of Austria. He composed more than 100 symphonies and helped popularize compositions for string quartets. The "Heiligmesse"is Symphony No. 88.

The Choral Union chamber orchestra will perform the symphony in its entirety, while the Choral Union performs the vocal mass.

The Choral Union is the largest choral ensemble at Juniata with a student membership of more than 100 and more than 30 members from communities in the Huntingdon area. The Juniata Choral Union traditionally performs larger choral works.

Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.