Christmas Vespers will brighten holidays Dec. 9

The gift of song will soon pervade Packer Chapel as LU Choral Arts performs its annual candlelight holiday celebration, Christmas Vespers.

The concert, one of Lehigh’s beloved traditions, will take place on Sunday, December 9, at 4 and 8 p.m. in the beautiful Packer Chapel.

“This is our Christmas present to the community,” said Lehigh University Choral Arts director Steven Sametz. “Many people tell us that this is the start of their holiday season.”

The much anticipated Vespers program features readings and music to celebrate the season. As part of the concert’s tradition, Sametz has created a unique arrangement of the 16th-century carol, Lo How A Rose E'er Blooming each year for over two decades.

“It’s my present to the singers of Lehigh Choral Arts, those tireless and adventurous singers who give so much of themselves to create such joy for the community year-round through song.” This year, the choir will also be performing The Son of God Has Come by Brahms as well as Angelus, composed by Sametz.

The two concerts are free, but seating is limited and early arrival—at least 30-45 minutes before each performance—is recommended. No tickets are required.

For more information, please call the Lehigh University Music Department at (610) 758-3835 or visit the Zoellner Web site.

--Alexandra Valasek