The 39th annual Christmas Vespers concert was performed Dec. 8 and Dec. 9 at First Presbyterian Church.
The concert was based around three movements from “Jubilate Deo” by Dan Forrest.
Dr. Randi von Ellefson, director of choral activities and director of Chamber Choir and Ad Astra, said people come from all around Oklahoma City to experience the event.
“People come wanting to find a way to enter the season of Christmas,” Ellefson said. “We’re giving them something that feeds their souls.”
The concert included the four choirs at OCU: Ad Astra, Chamber Choir, University Singers, and University Chorale, as well as the Vespers Orchestra, directed by Professor Jeffrey Grogan.
There was a musical prelude half an hour before the concert began featuring student organists and a flute choir. The narrator, who read poetry and scripture throughout the performance, was Dr. Susan Barber, former university provost.
Professor Tony Gonzalez, assistant director of choral activities and director of University Singers and University Chorale, said this was his second year directing for Christmas Vespers, and he loved it.
“I just think it’s an event that all students should attend,” Gonzales said.
The performance has traditionally been aired on KOCU about a week after the concert.
Ashley Arnold, music junior, said she loves the “Jubilate Deo” movements.
“It has some of the most gorgeous music I’ve ever heard!” Arnold said. “We are only doing three movements, but it’s still a sufficient sounding piece with us only doing three of the movements.”
Abby McBroom, music senior, said Vespers is a great way for students to get in the Christmas spirit.
“With all of the craziness of finals, it’s a nice way to unwind and enjoy some music,” McBroom said.
Performances were at 8 p.m. Friday Dec. 8-9 at First Presbyterian Church.
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