Messiah

In November 2026, The Villages Philharmonic will present George Frideric Handel’s Messiah, Part I, HWV 56. This extraordinary oratorio, composed by Handel in 1741, celebrates the prophecy of Christ’s coming, His birth, and the story of the Nativity. The performance will feature outstanding guest soloists together with the Orlando Opera Chorus, joining The Villages Philharmonic for an inspiring evening of great voices, powerful choral writing, and Handel’s timeless Nativity music.

Based in Florida’s friendliest hometown, “The Villages Philharmonic” is a professional Orchestra presenting the highest possible standard for excellence in musical performance since 2003.

Under the musical direction of acclaimed Conductor Pasquale Valerio, the orchestra has grown in stature while enriching and shaping cultural life. The orchestra presents musical masterpieces to nourish the hearts, souls and minds of local music patrons.

Most members live in the Orlando area but we have regular members who come from as far afield as Jacksonville, Tampa, Daytona and St. Petersburg. The Philharmonic gives 13-15 concerts per year and so we don’t provide full time employment for any of the players. Our players are comprised of resident and international artists who collaborate with symphonic and operatic companies at large. Although most orchestra members are not Villagers, there are two professional orchestra members who are Village residents and there are six amateurs who train each Saturday so that they can meet the standards required to play with the Philharmonic.