We live in troubled times; a broken world that’s crying for peace, harmony and hope. In our own backyard we are assaulted by the slaughter of innocents, deeply entrenched racism, divisions in our civic lives and a lingering pandemic. Christmas Vespers 2022 seeks to bring a sense of peace, harmony and hope to the listener. The service, “This Broken World Embrace,” is taking its title from a commissioned work by composer William Averitt. Poet Robert Bode created a new text for the well-known Swedish hymn tune Tryggare kan ingen vara for this new arrangement by Averitt. It will receive its world premiere performance during Christmas Vespers December, 2, 3 and 4 in Jackson Auditorium and on December 11 at Saint Martin’s Lutheran Church in Austin, TX.

Other commissioned works that will receive their premieres at this service of will include “De colores,” arranged by Mari Esabel Valverde and “Coventry Carol,” arranged by Douglas R. Boyer. Dr. Liliana Guerrero, Director of Vocal Studies at TLU, will join the TLU Choir, the TLU Treble Choir and Kantorei Chamber Choir as soprano soloist. The Orchestral Winds and Brass, under the direction of Professor Richard Herrera, will also be joining the choirs for the service. San Antonio actress, Sam Carter Gilliam, will lead the listener through the service of music and word.

Additional works to be performed include pieces for steel drum and choirs influenced by music of the Caribbean, a traditional lament from Ukraine, a movement from a Congolese style mass, and traditional pieces by J.S. Bach, Undine Smith Moore, and Susan LaBarr, among others. We hope you will join us for a service that seeks to lift hearts and spirits with peace, harmony and hope.

Tickets remain available for all days and may be picked up at the bookstore or the Will Call table at Jackson Auditorium.