As the semester nears its end, students may be looking for something that will put them in the holiday spirit. On Dec. 7 at 7 p.m., Biola’s Conservatory of Music will be hosting their annual Christmas concert, “Let the Nations Rejoice!,” filling the La Mirada Theatre for Performing Arts with music celebrating the birth of Christ. Almost 200 students have taken part in the performance that will bring Christmas cheer to those who attend.
From regular rehearsals together on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to practicing individually, each student has dedicated themselves to putting together the concert of the season.
“We’ve had a busy semester as an orchestra, so we haven’t had the music for a very long time. Because of this, listening to recordings and practicing individually is key to making sure it all comes together regardless,” Kyah Kang, junior music therapy major playing the viola, said.
Feelings of excitement and nerves are present for both Kang and Hannah Petinak, a junior English major who plays the clarinet. Performing for such a large audience is daunting, but the unity it brings to the community is joyous.
“[The Christmas concert] brings together multiple instrumental and vocal music ensembles, with the shared goal of playing and singing joyful music to celebrate the birth of Christ together as a community,” Petinak said.
Hundreds of people — audience members and musicians alike — will gather in one space to glorify God.
“There’s something so cool about almost 200 musicians playing together for the Lord,” Kang said.
The Christmas concert isn’t just about listening to good music. It also carries meaning and importance for the Biola community.
“It is very important to have spaces where the Biola community can come and celebrate the birth of our Lord through music,” Kang said. “Music is one of the primary ways I worship and it’s such a joy to share that with others.”
“I hope that we can spread the joy of Christ through music to all who attend,” Petinak said. “I think that Biola’s music program does a good job of emphasizing that when we perform, it is for God’s glory, so I hope that he is glorified in our celebration of Christmas, especially when we use our gifts — pun half-intended — to praise Him,” Petinak said.
