The 21st annual Sing-It-Yourself Messiah will be hosted this year by Christ Episcopal Church at 1700 Santa Clara Ave. (at Grand Street). The long-standing Island City tradition continues Saturday, Dec. 19, at 4 p.m.

The performance features the “The Trumpet Shall Sound” and “Hallelujah Chorus” of George Frideric Handel’s Oratorio Messiah with chamber orchestra, harpsichord, soloists, organ and a Sing-It-Yourself chorus. The public is invited to sing or just listen. Terry O’Connor and Michael Moran will conduct the chorus and orchestra.

Bring a copy of the Messiah if possible, as there will be a limited number of scores available to borrow. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome, this event is open and welcoming to all, of any (or no) religious orientation. 

Those who wish to can give a free-will offering to help offset the expenses of the event. Donations will be accepted but are not required. A barrel will be available for donations of canned or dry food for the Alameda Food Bank.

Volunteer choir directors, choir members, and community members organized Alameda’s first Sing-It-Yourself Messiah in 1995 to provide Alamedans with a Messiah of their own. Since that time, soloists and musicians from all over the Bay Area have participated in the annual free performances.  

“I’ve played harpsichord for this since 2002, and love this gig,” said Gesine Lohr. “Every year, it’s great to see so many community members come to sing, to play, to listen. I look forward to seeing and hearing you there!”

For more information, visit www.alamedasingityourselfmessiah.org or call Lohr at 205-9895.