TicketsThe Michigan State University College of Music invites the community to ring in the season with Holiday Glory, an uplifting concert that showcases the combined talents of MSU’s Symphony Orchestra and choirs—an impressive ensemble of over 300 voices and instrumentalists. Taking place Saturday, Dec. 7 at 8 p.m. in Wharton Center’s Cobb Great Hall, this festive event marks the opening of the MSU Federal Credit Union Showcase Series, dedicated to celebrating musical excellence within the College of Music.
MSU Choirs assembled for this concert include University Chorale, State Singers, and Choral Union conducted by Sandra Snow and Jonathan Reed.
Under the direction of conductors Sandra Snow and Jonathan Reed, Holiday Glory will feature two monumental works: Gloria by Francis Poulenc and selections from George Frideric Handel’s Messiah. Poulenc’s Gloria is known for its lush orchestration and jubilant spirit, while the selections from Messiah include Handel’s timeless “Hallelujah” chorus, a work that has moved audiences for centuries. Together, these pieces are designed to evoke celebration, reflection, and unity, creating a lasting holiday memory for all.
“Through works like Gloria and Messiah, we invite audiences to experience the joy and beauty of the holiday season,” says Sandra Snow, Director of Choral Programs. “This music has a remarkable power to connect, inspire, and uplift, and we are honored to share it.”
The program features MSU’s Choral Union, University Chorale, and State Singers alongside the MSU Symphony Orchestra directed by Octavio Más-Arocas, all coming together to convey the spirit of the season through Poulenc’s masterful melodies and Handel’s iconic choral harmonies. With vibrant energy and reverent expression, Holiday Glory delivers an unforgettable concert experience that reflects the true essence of the holiday season.
Under the direction of Octavio Más-Arocas, The MSU Symphony Orchestra will accompany MSU Choirs highlighting works by Francis Poulenc and George Frideric Handel.
Holiday Glory is generously supported by Teresa K. Woodruff, Ph.D., Thomas V. O’Halloran, Ph.D, Ann, John and Abby Lindley, and an anonymous donor family with the hope this concert touches our spirit and brings peace and joy to all this season and in the coming year.
Reserved-seat tickets for Holiday Glory are available exclusively through Wharton Center. Adult tickets are $22, senior tickets (age 60+) are $20, and student tickets are $12, with an additional $3.50 Wharton facility fee. To purchase, call 517-432-2000, (800) WHARTON, or visit whartoncenter.com.
For more holiday music, the Showcase Series also brings A Jazzy Little Christmas on Dec. 14 at the MSU Auditorium’s Fairchild Theatre, a lively performance of holiday classics with a jazz twist. Visit music.msu.edu for more information about this and other MSU College of Music concerts.
