The Southern Delaware Chorale will honor its founders and their legacy by marking the organization’s 40th anniversary with a presentation of Handel’s Messiah in partnership with the Southern Delaware Orchestra.

Audiences are invited to celebrate the season with a festive anniversary concert unlike any other at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 13, and 3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 14, at Cape Henlopen High School, 1250 Kings Hwy., Lewes.

This special event brings the chorale back to its roots with a modern twist — performing Handel’s Messiah, just as members did in their inaugural concert 40 years ago. This time, they’ll share the stage with the Southern Delaware Orchestra, blending two generations of local musical talent for a performance that promises to lift every voice.

Founded in 1985 under the auspices of the Sussex County Arts Council, the chorale began as a grassroots effort led by founder Beth Hochholzer, who longed to hear a live performance of Messiah in Sussex County. Her vision helped shape what would become one of the region’s most beloved arts organizations.

“This concert feels like a full-circle moment,” said Joseph Shortall, co-director. “We’re honoring our beginnings while showcasing how much the arts community here has grown. Partnering with SODELO is a wonderful reminder of how music connects communities.” Shortall will be directing the 40th anniversary concert.

Audiences can expect a heartwarming evening filled with timeless Christmas classics, including the iconic “Hallelujah Chorus” and “For Unto Us a Child Is Born.” The concert will feature four talented soloists: soprano Sarah Berger, mezzo-soprano Erica Ortega, tenor Joseph Shortall and bass/baritone Jim Williams.

In addition to live music, the chorale plans to honor past conductors and their families with a special gift and recognition. Taking a trip down memory lane, the chorale also plans to feature a special founder’s message from Hochholzer during the performance, along with displaying memorabilia from past seasons in the atrium for an atmosphere of nostalgia.

For both new audiences and longtime fans, this concert offers a meaningful way to celebrate the holidays while honoring the singers, supporters and visionaries who began this tradition 40 years ago.

Find details and reserve tickets at southerndelawarechorale.org.