Candlelight concert of lessons and carols tonight - Dec. 12-13

Roueche Chorale presents 15th Christmas service

IF YOU GO* What: Chattanooga Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols.* When: 7 p.m. today and Friday, Dec. 12-13.* Where: Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul, 214 E. Eighth St.* Admission: Free.* Phone: 423-855-2981.

Nearly 60 singers and 25 musicians will combine their talents to present the Roueche Chorale's inspirational Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols for its 15th year.

Two performances are scheduled at 7 p.m. today and Friday, Dec. 12-13, at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul. The free Christmas concert tells the story of Jesus's birth through Scripture and song.

Concertgoers will want to arrive early - not just to make sure they get a seat, because these concerts annually draw standing-room-only crowds - but to hear a musical prelude by harpist John Wickey. Hampton Baxter will sound a shofar to signal the start of the service before chorale members process into the sanctuary.

Chorale director Jeff Roueche says passages of Scripture will be read by Marcia Kling, Paul Martin, Jim Stover, Chuck Goodhard, Dan Alexander, the Rev. Tony Walliser, Ed Reeves, Nora Monteith and Sheri Fava.

Interspersed with the readings will be performances of Larry Nickel's "Kyrie," "For Unto Us a Child Is Born," from Handel's "Messiah," and John Rudder's "Nativity Carol."

Also on the program are "Majesty and Glory of Your Name," "Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord," "Advent Jubilation," "Canticle of the Wise Men," "In The Beginning" and "Come Follow Me."

Chorale member Mary Lynn Wilson says guests are being allowed free parking in the American Legion and State Office Building lots near the church, in addition to the basilica's parking area. There will be a charge for parking in the Republic lot. Roueche adds that there will be security on the premises during the concert.

Contact Susan Pierce at spierce@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6284.

Upcoming Events