The Blog

Festival of Lessons and Carols returns to Nebraska Christian Schools

The Festival of Lessons and Carols is returning to Nebraska Christian Schools. Local students and musicians will participate in the 9th Festival at NC, after the program was postponed in 2013. This year’s program, entitled “Believe,” will be presented in the school’s gymnasium on December 12.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and courtesy valet parking will be available. The program will begin at 6:15 with a prelude featuring special pieces by the organist, orchestra, and small groups.

The Festival of Lessons and Carols will once again be directed by international conductor Maestro Eric Dale Knapp of New York City.

Linda Sweetman-Waters, a piano soloist, organist, chamber musician, and accompanist, is also returning to perform as part of the concert.

Guest soloists include Megan Knapp of New York City and Janette Benson of Grand Island.

The festival choir will be comprised of 170 voices and includes students from Nebraska Christian, Central City, Palmer, Fullerton, Aurora, and High Plains, as well as area home schools.

Approximately 50 elementary students will be in the Children’s Choir, which will be directed by Mike Flynn, Nebraska Christian music director.

The 45-piece orchestra will include musicians from Hastings College and high school students from Grand Island, Hastings, and Central City.

Choir members will participate in an all-day choral workshop with Maestro Knapp prior to the evening performance.

The 2014 Festival of Lessons and Carols is sponsored in part by Nebraska Christian Schools, the Merrick Foundation, and the Nebraska Christian Schools Foundation.

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased in the Nebraska Christian office or by calling 308-946-3836.