The Oratorio Society of Queens celebrates its 85th anniversary! Founded in 1927, it is the oldest and longest-running musical institution in the borough. To celebrate this historic landmark in community music-making, the chorus presents Beethoven’s “Mass in C, Op. 86” as well as a special Armed Forces Salute, African-American Spirituals and Opera highlights on Sunday, May 20 at 4:00 pm in the Queensborough Performing Arts Center at Queensborough Community College.
This Queens’ institution, an 85-year old community chorus comprising 120-plus members, sings under the direction of Maestro David Close. Featured soloists performing with OSQ include Geraldine McMillian, soprano; Patricia Cay, mezzo-soprano;  John Easterlin, tenor; Vaughn Fritts, bass-baritone.
More program highlights include Sanctus from the “St. Cecilia Mass” of Gounod, Bizet’s immortal “Habanera” and other opera favorites, African-American Spirituals, and stirring patriotic songs reflecting a wide range of music that is the American choral experience.
Maestro David Close, recently said about Beethoven and the “Mass in C”:
Most folks have a romantic image of a composer sitting in his room, waiting to receive an inspiration to begin composing a new masterpiece. The reality is often quite different. Haydn, who had been Beethoven’s early teacher, recommended him to compose a mass for his patron, Prince Nikolaus Esterhazy II, since he, Haydn, was not well enough to undertake the task. Thus, out of being called in to pinch-hit, as it were for Haydn, Beethoven wound up creating a musical marvel that might never have existed. How lucky for us that he got the invitation!
Queensborough Community College is located at 222-05 56th Avenue, Bayside, NY - on 56th Avenue one block east of Springfield Blvd. Parking is free on the main lot adjacent to the theater, which offers easy-access entry.
Ticket prices at the box office are $25 general admission, $20 seniors (62+) and students with ID; children, 12 and under, accompanied by an adult, are free. For additional information, please call the Oratorio Society of Queens at 718.279.3006 or visit www.QueensOratorio.org