NACOGDOCHES, Texas - The combined choirs at Stephen F. Austin State University, along with the Orchestra of the Pines, will present "An SFA Christmas Garland" at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, in W.M. Turner Auditorium on the SFA campus.

A highly anticipated holiday event, this concert will feature the choirs and orchestra performing Part 1 - often referred to as the "Christmas portion" - of George Frideric Handel's "Messiah," according to Tim King, director of choral activities for the SFA School of Music and director of the performance.

"At the end of each fall semester, the School of Music offers a special musical Christmas present to the community," King said of this popular event. "It is one of the best-attended concerts all year, especially when the program features Handel's 'Messiah' - everyone's favorite!"

The Orchestra of the Pines, directed by Gene H. Moon, will perform selections from Pyotr IlyichTchaikovsky's ballet, "The Nutcracker."

An audience and community caroling will feature an arrangement of carols by Leroy Anderson, titled "A Christmas Festival." The Boston Pops first featured the arrangement, said King, who will direct this portion of the concert. The event is a joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts and School of Music. Turner Auditorium is located in the Griffith Fine Arts Building, 2222 Alumni Drive.

Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and $3 for students and youth. For tickets or more information, call the SFA Fine Arts Box Office at (936) 468-6407 or visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu.