AU SETS THE STAGE FOR CANDLES AND CAROLS 2008

The Anderson University School of Music will present the annual "Candles and Carols" Christmas concert on Friday, Dec. 5, at 7:30 p.m. in Reardon Auditorium on the campus of Anderson University. The annual Candles and Carols Christmas program revives many memories for those who attend each year. Feelings of togetherness, the excitement of singing traditional Christmas hymns with thousands of friends, and hearing the familiar strains of "Silent Night" echoing through the auditorium in the glow of the candlelight encourage audience members to return to Candles and Carols each year.

"Candles and Carols is a wonderful musical experience that ushers in the Christmas season for many of us," said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. "It shares the beauty and vibrancy of our music with an audience of all ages, and with the world. The message of the evening is always one of hope, peace and joy."

"It is a pleasure for us to give this gift to the Anderson community which faithfully supports us each year. Although it is only a small token of appreciation, I know the heart of the holiday season will be unmistakably evident through the music, scripture readings, and those in our community who unite with one another in spirit and in song," said Dr. Jeffrey E. Wright, dean of the Anderson University College of the Arts. More than 250 AU students from the School of Music will participate during the service, including the Chamber Orchestra, Chorale, and Men's Choir, directed by Dr. Richard Sowers; the Women's Chorus, directed by Joani Brandon; the Wind Ensemble, directed by Dr. Susan Taylor; and the Dance Ensemble, choreographer, Melodie Carr.

The audience will have the opportunity to participate in the program through congregational singing and the candle lighting ceremony at the conclusion of the evening.

Anderson University's Covenant Productions will tape and distribute the event to television stations nationwide. The program will air through December on stations affiliated with Public Broadcasting Stations (PBS), independent regional networks and national affiliates. Covenant Productions will also produce a DVD and CD of the program. DVDs are $16 each and CDs are $12 each. An order form is available online or may be ordered by calling the School of Music at 765-641-4450.

Candles and Carols is a free concert with general seating. For more information, contact the AU School of Music at 765-641-4450.

Anderson University is a private, four-year, Christian liberal arts institution of approximately 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, the university offers more than 60 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.