Hannibal Area String Orchestra to present Christmas concert Dec. 12 at Roland Fine Arts Center

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Hannibal Area String Orchestra will present its annual Christmas concert at 3 p.m. Dec. 12 in the Roland Fine Arts Center, 2800 Palmyra Road. 

The orchestra will play 11 pieces. The selection of Christmas songs are:

• “Little Drummer Boy” a rhythmic arrangement of a beloved melody. Peaceful, yet energetic this piece will get you into the holiday season. 
• “Evening Sleigh Ride” is a fun romp across the countryside.  Reminiscent of Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” this piece is light and full of movement that is sure to keep your toe tapping.  
• “Fantasia on Christmas Carols” by Ralph Von Williams has a beautiful medley which offers a fresh alternative to traditional holiday music.  It includes three folk carols from England: “The Truth Sent from Above,” “Come All You Worthy Gentlemen” and the “Sussex Carol.”  
• “Boughs of Holly” is a new take on a beloved traditional carol originally performed by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra featuring guitars and drums.

The organization consists of three groups: the Beginning and Intermediate String Orchestras, both directed by Katie Schisler, and the Advanced String Orchestra, directed by John Ferguson. The string orchestra has about 45 members including piano, guitars and percussion on some pieces.

The public is invited to attend. Admission is free, but a free-will offering will be taken to help cover the cost of music and other expenses. Each person attending will be required to wear a mask. For more information, contact Ferguson at 573-406-9971 or jd.ferguson@charter.net or Schisler at 573-822-3179 or kschisler@hannibal60.com.