Utah State University - » Utah State students organize free Christmas concert

Utah State students organize free Christmas concert

December 2nd, 2015 Posted in Entertainment

By Katherine Taylor
katherinedtaylor.com

For Chase Peterson, inspiration came in the form of a Christmas song.

“I was watching Ariana Grande and Michael Bublé sing a Christmas duet, and I was like, ‘I want to do something like this,’” said Peterson, a Utah State University student and musician.

What began with a song will continue with many more. Peterson’s concert, “It’s Christmastime,” will take place Friday at 7 p.m. at the Logan Tabernacle. The free event is open to the public.

After choosing the tabernacle as a venue, Peterson recruited eight other Utah State University students to perform with him: Nicole Vanderdoes, Bryson Ashcraft, Kyra Sorensen, Devin Davis, Hannah Jackson, Brae Beck, Bri Wright and Luke Maddox.

Each student is a volunteer; for Peterson, the most difficult aspect of organizing this concert has been finding time to rehearse together among the busy schedules of nine college students. Though difficult, the experience has been rewarding.

“I’ve been listening to Christmas music since September,” Peterson said. “I really just hope everyone can get into the Christmas spirit and enjoy some really good talent.”

Peterson is not the only one who hopes to share the Christmas spirit.

“With finals and work and everything bearing down on us this season, singing and listening to Christmas carols is the best way to get in the true spirit of Christmas and have a good time,”  Ashcraft said.

Ashcraft has loved singing since he was a child, a love he shared with his family.

“The Christmas season was just an excuse for us to sing carols at the top of our lungs. Now I get to do it on stage,” Ashcraft said, turning to a popular Christmas movie-turned-Broadway musical-turned-holiday television special for an example. “To quote my man, Buddy the Elf, ‘The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.’ And I truly believe that.”

For  Vanderdoes, this concert represents an opportunity to inspire and uplift others.

“Christmas has always had a special place in my heart. I love sharing about Christ’s birth and life through music,” Vanderdoes said. “I am so grateful to give that message. Christmas is about celebrating the birth of our savior.”

The final product of lots of dedication and rehearsal is an event that will feature vocal solos, duets and ensemble numbers along with string and organ performances.

“Come to be uplifted and entertained,” Ashcraft said. “If you come looking for good tunes, good fun and Christmas cheer, you won’t leave disappointed.”
-mdl