The birth of Jesus Christ is of course one of the best of all reasons to “praise the Lord,” and numerous authors and composers have recognized this by using “Alleluia!” in their hymns and anthems. This year’s concerts illustrate this, incorporating two pieces (by Randall Thompson and Ralph Manuel) for which this memorable word constitutes the entire text, and several other works (by Dan Forrest, J.A.C Redford, and Elaine Hagenberg) that employ it prominently. We’ve again included a setting of Mary’s song (the Magnificat) in the first half of the program, and we’re concentrating a bit more on the Magi and their worship in the second half, beginning with a Bizet march that symbolizes their journey, and featuring an extended setting of “The First Noel.”

We know you may have good reasons for not looking forward to this holiday season, and it may seem a bit “ho hum” at the outset. However, it’s our prayer that, whatever your circumstances, these concerts will illuminate dark places so that you can with us gladly praise the One Who deserves all our attention and adoration." -Dr. Don Hedges, Dean of the Paul T. Plew School of Music.

At The Master’s University, our mission is to empower students for a life of enduring commitment to Christ, biblical fidelity, moral integrity, intellectual growth and lasting contribution to the kingdom of God worldwide.

www.masters.edu/music | (661) 362-2276 | [email protected]
MacArthur Center Gymnasium, 21726 Placerita Canyon Road, Santa Clarita CA, 91321