Christmas music to kick off the season of cheer

There's no shortage of Christmas music in the coming weeks. Here are a few events scheduled at the River Campus:

• The Southeast Missouri Symphony Orchestra and University Choir and Choral Union will perform Poulenc's Gloria at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. There also will music billed as "festive symphonic works to help usher in the Thanksgiving and holiday season."
• The Big Band Christmas Jukebox is set for 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Those who enjoy jazz will especially appreciate this performance.
• Trans-Siberian Orchestra Tribute by LivinTale will take the stage at 7 p.m. Dec. 5.
• The university's Family Holiday Percussion Concert will take place at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Dec. 7.

Many churches will be hosting their own Christmas celebrations, and the SoutheastHEALTH Sounds of the Season concert, the 24th annual benefiting the Southeast Cancer Care Fund, is set for 3 p.m. Dec. 8 at Cape First Church.

Music is an important part of the Christmas season. We hope you enjoy one or more of these performances.