Southeastern presents 88th Candlelighting on Dec. 7

Press Release Date: 11-30-2009

DURANT, Okla. – In keeping with tradition, Southeastern Oklahoma State University will mark the holiday season with the 88th Annual Candlelighting and Concert on Monday, Dec. 7, at 7:30 p.m.

The event will take place at Montgomery Auditorium on campus and is free and open to the public.

The first Candlelighting event was held on Dec. 18, 1921; this year's Candlelighting will provide a fitting end to the University's centennial celebration in 2009.

This year's concert will feature the Southeastern Symphonic Choir, Dr. Stacy Weger, conductor, presenting collections of traditional Christmas carols and secular favorites focusing on the festive nature of the season. Selections include "O Holy Night," "Here's A Pretty Little Baby," "Sleigh Ride," and "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year," among others. The centerpiece of the concert will be Respighi's "Laud to the Nativity," a major work featuring Aaron Adair, Jocelyn Batts, and Amber Wellborn as soloists.

Dr. Robert McFadden, Professor of Music, will serve as accompanist. The Southeastern Brass Ensemble led by Jacob Wallace, Director of Bands, will join in for the traditional carol sing.

Cardinal Key and Blue Key Honor Societies will once again serve as acolytes in the candlelighting portion of the evening.

The traditional Candlelighting event is designed to reflect the joyful nature of the season, and serves as a great way to start holiday celebrations. KSSU, 91.9 FM, will feature a live broadcast of this concert. For more information, call 745-2088.