Woodlands Academy invites the public to a free Christmas Concert

The public is invited to enjoy an evening of holiday music and as the Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart Music Department presents its annual Christmas Concert on Thursday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. The free concert will take place in the Chapel of the Sacred Heart at the school, 760 E. Westleigh Road, Lake Forest.

All of the choral students will begin the program with their traditional candlelight procession, followed by performances from each of the choirs. Highlights will include a jazzy version of "Jingle Bells" by JV-Kaleidoscope (A Choir'd Taste), "Grown up Christmas Wish" and "Jing-a-Ling" - made popular by the Andrew Sisters - performed by Kaleidoscope (select ensemble) and "Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland" by Microscope (student-directed a cappella choir under the leadership of senior Chloe Tomkins of Lake Forest). These award-winning choral groups are under the direction of Elizabeth Kurowski.

Also featured will be the award-winning Woodlands Academy Symphonic Orchestra under the direction of Lauren Moldenhauer performing selections from Handel's "Messiah" arranged by Moldenhauer. Included is a combined orchestra and choir rendition of the "Hallelujah Chorus" at the end of the concert featuring the always-popular audience participation. The orchestra also will be playing several nonclassical works, including the adaptation of "Christmas Eve /Sarajevo 12/24" by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra featuring guitar, electric bass and drum set.

Four of the school's students from China - Shi Yu Wang, Yuwei Han, Zijun Jiang and Qiu Ran Dong - will be featured as choral accompanists.

Refreshments will be served following the concert.

For information, visit www.woodlandsacademy.org.