Musicians from The Catholic University of America will welcome the Christmas season with the Annual Christmas Concert on Friday, Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Great Upper Church.
The concert will consist of performances by the Catholic University Choir and Symphony Orchestra under the musical direction of professor Marc Bryan Lilley, interim Music Director for the University’s choir and area head of musical theater.
“Annual traditions such as this Christmas concert provide a wonderful opportunity to highlight our students' talents as singers and musicians,” said Dr. Peter K. Kilpatrick, president of the University. “My wife Nancy and I look forward to hearing the sounds of the season come alive in the Basilica and being filled with the Christmas spirit.”
The concert will be a celebration of festive seasonal music for choir and orchestra. Featuring more than 100 singers and players, this year's program features selections from popular classical composers like Mozart and Mendelssohn, music from the great Anglican choral tradition, and beautiful Latin motets. The concert will wrap up with an exciting medley of carols and, per tradition, a sing-along with the orchestra and choir.
St Ann's Center for Children, Youth, and Families will receive the proceeds from the collection taken during the concert. St. Ann’s Center, a registered nonprofit organization which has served the District of Columbia for generations, is committed to lifting vulnerable children, mothers and families out of poverty and homelessness. Its innovative housing and support programs build upon a family’s inherent strengths by providing the tools for life-long independence and self-sufficiency.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude to The Catholic University of America for selecting St. Ann’s as the beneficiary of the Annual Christmas Concert. This is yet another example of the creativity of the University’s faculty, staff and students in helping others. St. Ann’s is blessed to have the University community’s friendship!” said Sr. Mary Bader, CEO, St. Ann’s Center for Children, Youth and Families.
Founded in 1860 by the Daughters of Charity, the mission and vision of St. Ann’s Center is inspired by Catholic social teachings. The highly-trained staff and volunteers recognize the dignity of every human life and create a vibrant community where every child and mother has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.
The concert will be approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes long with no intermission. It is being recorded and will air on EWTN on Dec. 25 at 10:30 p.m ET and Dec. 27 at 4:30 a.m. ET. Check local listings for more details.
All are welcome and admission is free. Free parking is available at the Basilica Harewood Road parking lot.
