G. F. Handel’s oratorio „Messiah“ is among the top of this genre and stands high with the „Chor Friedenskirche“ (parish of Linz-Christkönig) led by Eduard Matscheko since 2001. The ensemble which was excellently prepared and rehearsed – mastered the difficult passages, developed a surprising volume (sometimes even slightly too much) with great assurance and total commitment. As often inevitable, the female voices prevailed, but the male ones stood their ground.
The result was an incisive, often emphatic performance in which the original tempo indication was sometimes interpreted as rather too fast. Among the soloists the alto Bernadett Fodor ( from the Musiktheater Linz) excelled with her voice full of nuances, expressiveness, and warmth. The young tenor Jan Petryka’ s expressive, beautiful, and articulate voice was really delightful to listen to . The young soprano Ilia Vierlinger conveyed the profound content of her part. They all presented their coloratures in a very refined way. ….
Thanks to the prudent, creative conductorship the instrumentalists restrained themselves to the benefit of the soloists and the choir, which led to a delightful result. Conductor Eduard Matscheko presented a musically precise performance and was not afraid of powerful presentation. It would sometimes have been advisable to present some passages as great narratives. Lively applause in a sold-out church.