Howard Payne University’s Symphonic Band and Concert Choir will present a Christmas celebration concert at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 4, in the university’s Mims Auditorium. The concert is free and the community is encouraged to attend as HPU celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

“The musical selections are sure to get the Christmas spirit in full swing as the students perform many Christmastime favorites,” said Corey Ash, director of bands.

Among the program’s selections are Sleigh Ride by Leroy Anderson, Symphonic Prelude on Adeste Fidelis by Claude T. Smith, A Fantasy of Carols arranged by Jay Bocook and many more. There will also be an audience Christmas carol sing-along.

Those attending the concert are encouraged to bring a canned good or boxed dry good as a donation for admission. All of the goods collected will go to Good Samaritan Ministries of Brown County to aid those who need a helping hand during this winter and holiday season.

A reception will follow the concert in the band rehearsal hall of the Davidson Music Complex.

“We hope to see you there but, if not, may your holiday season be filled with the joy of family and friends,” said Ash. “Most especially, may you know the joy of the greatest holiday gift of all time, Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior.”