After a one-year hiatus, the annual sing-along performance of G.F. Handel’s “Messiah,” a Modesto tradition, will return on Sunday, Nov. 24. Singers of all ages and abilities are invited to participate in the community-wide event, which is free and open to the public, and will take place at 3 p.m. at Trinity United Presbyterian Church, 1600 Carver Road.

This year, the sing-along welcomes a new conductor, John Carter of Sonora. Carter, who was a professor of music at Columbia College for over 30 years, is looking forward to taking up the baton for the sing-along.

“I remember singing Handel’s Messiah while still in high school,” Carter said. “As a young tenor, I was a member of the Modesto Masterworks Chorus; we performed with Dr. Robert Larson. It was a fantastic experience that set the music in my memory and heart. I still love this piece.”

Carter plans to increase the repertoire this year, conducting the singers in more than a dozen of oratorio’s choruses as well as several pieces that are normally reserved for soloists. A chamber orchestra and trumpet will perform, and Steve Grubb will accompany on the organ. Vocal soloists include Linda Carter (soprano), Jennifer Champeaux (alto), Bruce Merchant (tenor), and Rich Colla (bass).

Scheduled each year for the Sunday before Thanksgiving, “The sing-along is a great way to kick off the Holiday season,” said event organizer, Denise Nordell. “Singers come from throughout the region to sing with us. Whether you’ve sung “Messiah” once or a hundred times, or just enjoyed listening to it from the audience, the “Messiah” sing-along gives vocalists of all skill levels the opportunity to enjoy the experience of sharing this beautiful music together.”

The sing-along typically attracts up to 150 singers from throughout the region.

Singers are encouraged to bring their own scores; however, copies will be available to borrow. For more information, call (209) 765-6388.