Dec., 2, 2024

Ferris State Music students sharing holiday spirit with ‘Symphonic Santa Sunday,’ a free concert for campus and community on Dec. 8

Ferris State University Music students are sharing the holiday spirit with a free concert, “Symphonic Santa Sunday,” open to campus and community.  

The concert is planned for 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 8 in Ferris State’s Williams Auditorium. Organizers said the concert should whet the appetite of those ready to enjoy the holidays and includes favorites of the season and global selections to entertain all ages.

Assistant Professor of Music Daniel Atwood will direct the university’s orchestra and said music of the Christmas season and Hanukkah will be found in the Ferris Concert Band and Concert Choir’s programs.

“The orchestra’s classic selection will be ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,’” Atwood said. “We will also present ‘An African Holy Night,’ ‘Fantasia on a Spanish Carol: (Fum, Fum, Fum).”

Atwood added the Orchestra will have collaborative works with the concert band and choir as part of the program.

“The concert band, orchestra and choir will combine for traditional favorites such as ‘White Christmas’ and ‘Sleigh Ride’, and we are glad that Saint Nick plans to appear along with our groups,” Atwood said. “This is a great chance for families and friends around the area to join with our campus community and enjoy a sing-along at the close of the concert, led by the Concert Choir.”

Humanities Chair Scott Cohen and Music Center Director Katie McInnis will direct the concert band and concert choir.  

Atwood said those enjoying this free concert are asked to bring an item to the auditorium, which will be donated to The Bulldog Pantry. Canned goods are welcomed along with other non-perishable items, with a current need for spices, cooking oil and sugar packets.

Anyone with a disability who needs special accommodations to attend this program must contact 231-591-5863 or email Williams Auditorium at least 72 hours in advance of the event.