Details:

DAY Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
TIME:  7:00 PM
LOCATION: St. Joseph Catholic Church -8295 Van Aiken Street | Cost: Free
RECEPTION: Immediately following the Concert at St. Joseph Catholic Church Hall

Holiday Art on the Avenue will be on display at St. Joseph Catholic Church Hall

Featuring
Adrian College Choir &
Adrian College Women’s
A Capella Ensemble

Adrain College Choir

Phillip Clark, Director of Choir and Orchestra

Throughout its history, the Adrian College Choir has toured Europe, China, and the eastern United States. In 2008, the choir performed at music festivals in Beijing and Shanghai as part of the Summer Olympics festivities. In 2010, the choir made its Carnegie Hall debut in New York City.

Performances of large choral works with orchestra include Mozart’s Requiem with John Rutter in New York City and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 with the Beijing Conservatory Symphony Orchestra. The Adrian College Choir has frequently collaborated with the Adrian Symphony Orchestra, performing works such as Beethoven’s Choral Fantasie, Holst’s The Planets, Orff’s Carmina Burana, and Handel’s Messiah. Other notable performances include the Faure Requiem with the New England Chamber Orchestra in New York City and Karl Jenkins’ Mass for Peace with the Adrian Chamber Orchestra. Future engagements include an upcoming performance of Haydn’s Paukenmesse with the Adrian Symphony Orchestra, in May 2025. Annual College Choir performances feature the Adrian College Baccalaureate Service, Homecoming service, Lessons & Carols, and the Spring Vocal Showcase Concert.

Women’s A Cappella Ensemble

Dr. Kristin Clark, Director

Founded in fall of 2018, this ensemble is dedicated to singing a wide range of music in the popular collegiate tradition of a cappella.  This small ensemble of female voices is comprised of music majors and non-music majors alike, selected by auditions. In addition to this ensemble, these singers are active in campus activities such as athletics, student government, and Greek life.   Off-campus performances have included appearances at Comerica Park, Little Caesars Arena, Christmas in Ida, Blissfield Yuletide Festival, and the Adrian Tree Lighting ceremony.  Annual on-campus performances include the AC Homecoming Service, Halloween Concert, and Lessons and Carols.

In true Christmas in Ida spirit and tradition, all concerts are free with many opportunities to meet the stars of the concerts.

The Fascinating Story of the Commemorative Concert

The inception of the Commemorative Concert occurred during the jubilant observance of the 25th Anniversary of the Christmas in Ida Festival. Originally conceived as a singular occasion, this event swiftly evolved into a cornerstone of the festival, consistently showcasing the musical prowess of youth ensembles, choruses, and choirs.

Distinguished by its commitment to inclusivity and a diverse array of musical traditions, the Commemorative Concert exemplifies a broad spectrum of genres. Held within the hallowed halls of the St. Joseph Catholic Church, this esteemed venue has borne witness to remarkable performances by renowned musical groups, including but not limited to, the Boychoir of Ann Arbor, Detroit Choral Artists, Saline Fiddlers, Detroit Opera Youth Chorus, Michigan Opera Theater Children’s Chorus, and Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit. Additionally, collaborative performances have featured vocal ensembles such as the Eastern Michigan University Choir, Siena Heights University Chamber Singers, Adrian College Choir, Michigan State University AccaFellas, and University of Michigan G-Men.

In a testament to its dedication to the cultural heritage of Michigan, the Christmas in Ida festival has forged a partnership with the Michigan Humanities Council. This collaboration ensures the continued delivery of performances that not only exemplify artistic excellence but also pay homage to the rich cultural tapestry of the state.