Brief: Rosemount Resident to Perform in the Christmas with Waldorf Celebration

Rosemount resident Emily Anderson, a member of the Waldorf Wind Symphony, will perform in the Christmas with Waldorf event, a 90-year-old annual celebration of the holiday season.

The event will showcase Waldorf College’s fine arts department at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 in the John K. and Luise Hanson Fieldhouse in Forest City, IA.

A freshman at Waldorf, Anderson will play the flute for the Wind Symphony performance.

The theme of the event this year, ‘A Christmas Homecoming,’ symbolizes both the heartfelt offerings of the season, and the familiarity of many of the musical selections. This year’s concert invites the audience to sing along with their favorite carols.

“We want the audience to join in the celebration of music with Waldorf College,” said Adam Luebke, the new director of choral activities at Waldorf College and also the artistic director of the event. “Christmas with Waldorf is part of a deep tradition of music at Waldorf College and connection to our Lutheran heritage.”

The concert will feature performances by the Waldorf Choir, Waldorf Wind Symphony, Schola Cantorum, Sangkor, and Viking Chorus. The performances include, Christmas Cantata by Daniel Pinkham, Lullabye for Christmas Eve by F. Melius Christiansen, E’en So Lord Jesus Quickly Come by Paul Manz, Here’s a Pretty Little Baby an African-American Spiritual arranged by Andre J. Thomas, and a collage of familiar carols including audience participation.

“We’ve always focused on traditional Christmas music, but this year will be even more festive,” said Dr. Bob AuFrance, director of fine arts administration at Waldorf College and producer of Christmas with Waldorf. “The Christmas story will still be told, but with fewer readings and more music.”

Christmas with Waldorf also features a feast of traditional Scandinavian food and American holiday favorites. Served in the Waldorf College Atrium prior to the concert, the buffet-style meal will include lutefisk.

Christmas with Waldorf dates back to early 1900s, when the program included different styles of performances and acts highlighting the festiveseason. “This continuing musical celebration demonstrates our faith and commitment to our Lutheran heritage,” said Dr. AuFrance.

Tickets for the both the meal and concert are $27 for Saturday and $22 for Sunday. Tickets for the concert alone are $10. Special group discounts are available.

For tickets or more information, call the box office at (641) 585-8724 or visit www.waldorf.edu/Christmas.