Assumption Parish presents Mendelssohn’s “Elijah” on Thursday, May 21

May 15, 2026

A collective of local musicians will perform Felix Mendelssohn’s oratorio “Elijah”, Part I, at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 21 at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish, 3516 E. Monroe Road in Midland.

All are invited to enjoy this musical account of the mission of the Old Testament prophet Elijah. No ticket is required; freewill offerings are welcome.

The concert is presented collaboratively by Assumption Parish and Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw, bringing together chamber orchestra, choir and soloists from throughout the Tri-City area.

The same performance will be offered at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 17 at Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, 615 Hoyt Avenue in Saginaw.

Featured soloists include George Hageage IV (Elijah), theater and vocal performer; Jude Renfer (alto), vocalist and private music teacher; Dr. Letícia Grützmann (soprano), conductor of the Midland Center for the Arts Chorale and Camerata, and Director of Choral Studies at Saginaw Valley State University; and David Aukerman (tenor), member of the Midland Chorale and Camerata Singers.

The concert is directed by Jim Renfer, director of Assumption Parish Music Ministry, organist, and vocalist.

This concert is the sixth in Assumption Parish’s ongoing sacred concert series. Past performances include Handel’s “Messiah”, held annually; Dubois’ “Seven Last Words of Christ”; Vivaldi’s “Gloria”; and Faure’s “Requiem”.

“Thanks to our collaboration with the Cathedral in Saginaw, ‘Elijah’ is set to be our largest and most dynamic concert yet,” said Renfer. “We hope you will come experience this monumental work and be inspired by its themes of faith and renewal.”