A Boehr tradition
01/15/2025
Bluffton alumnus Dick Boehr first performed in the "Messiah" as a recent high school graduate.
Bringing the Christmas story to life
Dick Boehr, x53, participated in his 75th performance of Handel’s “Messiah” on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, at Bluffton University.
“‘Messiah’ goes back for many years in my family,” said Boehr. “Something about just the name ‘Messiah’ and what it represents and the story it tells always has a special meaning to me.”
After graduating from Pandora High School in 1949, Boehr participated in his first “Messiah” performance. Members of Boehr’s family, including his aunt Elizabeth who first participated in 1918, have performed in “Messiah” in the past. This connection to his family has made singing and being part of this event special to Boehr.
This year, Bluffton University joined choirs with University of Findlay and expanded the numbers to nearly 100 members participating singing once at University of Findlay and once at Bluffton University. Boehr explained that it was a rewarding experience and made it more enjoyable for the singers as it brings a rejuvenation and meaning to “Messiah” with more participants.
“This year was a joy with the two choirs,” said Boehr. “We had 100 singers and it was so comfortable and I really enjoyed it. Performing ‘Messiah’ twice this year was also very rewarding and I got to meet new people.”
For Boehr, performing in “Messiah” with the Bluffton choir holds a unique significance. Boehr’s favorite thing about performing in “Messiah” with the Bluffton choir is that it brings a special feeling to him where he wants it continue on for years to come. Boehr also enjoys being part of “Messiah” as it involves everyone and no one is left out.
As Boehr celebrates his 75th “Messiah” performance, his enduring passion for the music and the community it creates continues to inspire those around him, including his son, Jeff ’78 who has sung a solo in a “Messiah” performance in Eastern Ohio.
Boehr encourages others to get involved with the “Messiah” whether through performance or attendance. He believes that those who enjoy different kinds of music and harmonizing with others can help bring the story of Christmas to life.
“I hope anyone who is interested in ‘Messiah’ tries it at least once in their lifetime,” said Boehr. “Many of us have really enjoyed it and come back year after year, so I hope we can inspire others to do the same.”
Boehr hopes to be involved in “Messiah” as long as he can. If not performing, he plans on attending the performances to continue to show his love and support of this event.