The University of Southern Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, various USM choirs, the Hattiesburg Civic Chorus and Hattiesburg area high school students will be collaborating in a musical performance to celebrate the holiday season. With more than 500 musicians performing in the program, “The Holiday Choral Spectacular” is set to begin at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 1 and Dec. 3 at Main Street Baptist Church in Hattiesburg.

The annual showcase has been a community favorite being hosted for over a decade. This year’s concert will platform British composer John Rutter’s “Gloria,” a salute to the season. The performance will also feature holiday choices, including  “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Joy to the World” and “O Come All Ye Faithful.” The multi-piece presentation was directed by Gregory Fuller, Lauren Fowler-Calisto, Webb Parker and Southern Miss director of orchestral activities Jay Dean.

“This is an event people look forward to all year,” Fuller said. “This concert provides an opportunity for our community to come together, celebrate and relax while enjoying an evening of beautiful music during a very busy time of the year.”

The USM Symphony Orchestra will present the Southern Chorale, Concert Choir, Southern Miss Men, Women’s Choir, Spirit of Southern, the Southern Belle Tones, the Hattiesburg Choral Union and students from Sumrall High School, Forrest County Agricultural High School and Pearl River Central High School.

The next performance by the USM School of Music will be in February at the Mannoni Performing Arts Center Auditorium.  The Southern Opera and Musical Theatre Company will perform a production entitled “Carmen.”

“Our 96th season proves to be one of our best yet—full of premieres and celebrities,” Dean said.

Advance tickets are available at the Southern Miss Ticket Office. Tickets will also be available at the door. Patrons are encouraged to buy tickets early as this event sells out frequently.