WCU to present 97th annual holiday program

WEST CHESTER >> The West Chester University Wells School of Music proudly presents the 97th Annual Holiday Program on Saturday, Dec. 1, at 3 p.m. in the Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall in the Philips Memorial Building at 700 S. High Street, West Chester.

An annual tradition for campus and community members, the Holiday Program at West Chester is just one of over 300 programs presented annually by the Wells School of Music. The program involves many of the school’s students and ensembles. Ryan Kelly, an Associate Professor at the Wells School of Music and the Associate Director of Choral Activities, directs the program, alongside multiple conductors.

“Our Holiday Program is a time-honored tradition that is well-attended by alumni, students, parents, and members of the surrounding community,” Kelly said. “We invite all members of the West Chester community to jumpstart the holidays by enjoying beautiful and festive music. You’ll hear recognizable vocal, choral and orchestral Holiday favorites, as well as pieces that are programmed with the Season in mind.”

Leroy Anderson’s “A Christmas Festival”, Morten Lauridsen’s “O Nata Lux”, and Gerald Finzi’s “In Terra Pax” are all on the program, along with the vocal selections “Let It Snow” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”

Each year, an Honors soloist is chosen to sing “O Holy Night.” This year’s soloist is Havertown native, Kathryn Corbino. Corbino is a senior, double majoring in Music Performance for Voice and Music Education. In addition to “O Holy Night,” Corbino is the soprano soloist for “In Terra Pax.”

The concert lasts about an hour and 15 minutes. Limited parking is available across and along the street just outside the Philips Memorial Building. Parking is also available in West Chester’s M Lot, just a short walk away. Purchasing tickets in advance is strongly encouraged. To ease box office congestion, day-of sales are cash only.

Tickets are $12 and onsale now at www.wcupatix. com or 610-436-2266.