Over the past 85 years, the Baker and Baldwin City communities have gathered each December to celebrate the sounds of Christmas through song at the annual Christmas Candlelight Vespers.

The festive concert originally started as a choral event, but over recent years it has evolved to encompass the talents of the entire music and theater departments, ranging from the performances of various ensembles and musical accompaniment to lighting and program design.

Other contributions will be made by a guest harpist accompanying the choirs and ensembles, Associate Professor Emeritus of Music Ray James performing with the Trombone Choir and BU President Lynne Murray reciting a holiday poem.

Director of Choral Ensembles Cathy Crispino said that this Vespers has a nice mix of traditional and newer Christmas songs, like “The Work of Christmas,” which is a poem written by Howard Thurman in 1985 and set to music by Dan Forrest.

“One piece we are going to sing is called ‘The Work of Christmas,’” Crispino said. “We have printed those words in the program to leave with the audience to ponder. It is about when all of the festivities are over and everything is finished…What is the real work of Christmas? It is really a lovely text.”

Senior Marta Czarnick is in Concert Choir and thinks that Vespers is a great opportunity to hear immersive music.

“What I like about Vespers is how we are able to take beautiful music and make you feel like you are a part of it.” Czarnick said. “With all the elements put together, it’s a nice winter experience.”

Senior Sam Kendrick, the leading first-violin player in Orchestra, said Vespers is an essential part of the fall semester.

“Even though it comes at one of the busiest times of the year,” Kendrick said, “the fall semester just wouldn’t seem complete without our annual Vespers concert. Every single one of those of us performing is looking forward to this performance.”

Crispino urges people to come to the concert and receive some holiday joy.

“It will be an hour-long program all wrapped-up in a bow for everyone to enjoy,” Crispino said. “Take time out of this busy season to listen to some great music.”

Audiences have two chances to see the 85th Christmas Candlelight Vespers, with one performance at 2 p.m. and another at 5 p.m., both with free admission, on Dec. 6 in Rice Auditorium. There will also be a reception held between performances at the Collins House.