The Masterworks Chorus and Orchestra of Chowan University will present “The Messiah” by G.F. Handel at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts.

In slightly more than three weeks, Handel composed what would become the most beloved oratorio of all time. The work was premiered on April 13, 1742, in Dublin. The Chowan performance will feature almost all of Part One as well as excerpts from Parts Two and Three of the work.

This will be the third presentation of “The Messiah” under the direction of Dr. Gregory Parker, professor of music and chair of the Department of Music at Chowan. The 56-member chorus and 24-member orchestra will be joined by outstanding soloists Shelley Maddox, soprano, of Greenville, Nicole House, mezzo-soprano, of Durham, Jeff Prillaman, tenor, of Richmond, and Eric Loftin, baritone, of Kinston.

Tickets are $15 and available at www.suffolkcenter.org or by calling 923-2900. For more information, contact the Chowan University Department of Music at 252-398-6236 or at music@chowan.edu.