Stephen F. Austin State University

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The Stephen F. Austin State University A Cappella
Choir, Choral Union, Women's Chamber Choir and Brass and Percussion Ensemble
will present a joint concert, "Song of the Angels," at 7:30 p.m. Friday,
Dec. 8, in W.M. Turner Auditorium.

SFA's School of Music frequently presents G.F. Handel's "Messiah" at the end
of the fall semester, but this year the concert features a variety of works
all related to Christmas and the theme of peace. The highlight of the
program will be the combined choirs and instrumentalists performing John
Rutter's "Gloria."

"Ever since the Gloria was first sung to the shepherds in the fields of
Bethlehem, it has been an especially powerful prayer for peace," said Dr.
Tim King, SFA director of choral activities. "After all, the text reads,
'Glory to God in the Highest and Peace to men of goodwill.'"

The combined ensembles will also perform "Glory to God" by Giovanni
Pergolesi.

Special guests for the concert include the SFA Charter School Choir singing
two original compositions and Dr. Andrew Unsworth, newly appointed assistant
professor of music at SFA, performing on the organ the "Finale" from
Symphony No. 1, Op. 14 by Louis Vierne.

The program also includes each of the choirs and the Brass Ensemble
separately performing two to four works.

The concert will close with the audience members joining the choirs in
singing carols such as "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" and "O Come All Ye
Faithful."

The concert is a joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts and
School of Music. It is sponsored in part by Nacogdoches Medical Center.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for students and youths.
For tickets or more information, please visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call
(936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.

Cutline: The SFA combined choirs and Brass and Percussion Ensemble will
present "Song of the Angels" at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, in W.M.
Turner Auditorium.