`A Song of Christmas’ Dec. 20

“A Song of Christmas,” an afternoon of Christmas music and readings, will be presented by the Lakeshore Chorale and Lakeshore Youth Chorale at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church in Sheboygan.

As part of Lakeshore Chorale’s 2009-10 “Season of Song,” music director Wayne Wildman, with the aid of Kathy Pedersen, accompanist, will lead the Lakeshore Chorale and chamber orchestra in a performance of “Missa Pastoril” by Brazilian composer Jose Mauricio Nunes Garcia.

Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1767, and ordained as a priest, Garcia became known for his musical and intellectual abilities, as well as his humility. He served as court composer of the Portuguese Prince Joao VI after Napoleon’s invasion of Portugal. During Garcia’s tenure as court composer, he wrote dozens of works for the royal chapel, including the “Missa Pastoril.”

Several soloists from the chorale will be featured throughout the work, including Sandy Fyffe, Sandie Palmer, Becky Haen (soprano), Ann Muellenbach, Mary Klein (alto), Tyler Williams (tenor), William Kohler, and Benjamin Dobey (bass).

Under the direction of Heather Hammond and accompanied by Tricia Marton and Drea Wagner, the Lakeshore Youth Chorale will present several pieces arranged for young voices.

The audience will join the chorales in singing familiar Christmas songs and hymns, accompanied by organ and orchestra. Musical selections will be interspersed with Christmas readings by Nan Browne, Dan Clausen, Nancy Johnsen, Eleanor Jung, and Dean Pratt.

Following the concert, all are invited to a cookies and punch reception in the lower level of the church, hosted by the Lakeshore Youth Chorale.