Lee University will hold the highly anticipated annual Classic Christmas celebration on Sunday, Dec. 4. This festive concert for the entire family will take place at 3 p.m. in the Conn Center.

“Lee University is thrilled to welcome the community back to our annual Classic Christmas production,” said Dr. Cameron Weatherford, assistant professor of choral music. “This year’s event will bring with it all of the elements our attendees have come to love and cherish about Classic Christmas, like singing along with some of their favorite Christmas carols and songs and hearing the Lee University ensembles provide exceptional Christmas music at the highest level.”

Guests are invited to hear and sing along to beloved Christmas songs including “Joy to the World,” “Silent Night,” “O Holy Night,” “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” and other holiday favorites.

Ensembles performing in Classic Christmas include Lee Orchestra, directed by Ismael Sandavol, artist in residence; Lee University Chorale, directed by Dr. William Green, School of Music dean; Choral Union and Ladies of Lee, both directed by Weatherford; and Lee Handbells, directed by Laud Vaught, coordinator of the Phillip Thomas Music Resource Center.

“This year will also bring a fresh twist to the program with the addition of Lee alum Clark Beckham, who will, in tandem with our ensembles and musicians, provide incredible musical moments as the featured artist,” said Weatherford.

Beckham, American Idol season 14 runner-up, has performed with the famous Nashville Symphony, opened for platinum-selling recording artists Jon Bellion and Allen Stone, and was nominated for a Teen Choice Award.  He has also released an EP and an album “Light Year,” which debuted in 2020.

“Classic Christmas 2022 is sure to be a memorable way for our community to kick off the holiday season, and we look forward to sharing these memories with all who attend,” said Weatherford.

Bank of Cleveland, the only locally owned and operated bank in Cleveland/Bradley County, joins Lee in sponsoring this year’s Classic Christmas for the fourth year.

Doors open at 2 p.m. Tickets are free, but required, and are available at Lee University Dixon Center Box Office or by visiting leeu-music.eventbrite.com. The box office, located on Church Street, is open weekdays from 3-6 p.m. and can be reached by calling (423) 614-8343.

The event will be available for live stream at leeu.live.

For more information, visit leeu-music.eventbrite.com or call (423) 614-8240.