POCATELLO – The Idaho State-Civic Symphony is delighted to present its annual Joy to the World! holiday concert with two live performances filled with festive music and community spirit. The concerts will take place at 7:30 pm. on December 12th and 13th in the Joseph C. and Cheryl H. Jensen Grand Concert Hall at the Stephens Performing Arts Center.

This year’s program brings together over one hundred musicians and choristers, featuring the Idaho State-Civic Symphony, Idaho State University Concert Choir, and the Camerata Singers, under the direction of Dr. Nell Flanders and Dr. Jeffrey Francom. Audiences will hear beloved Christmas classics, choral masterpieces, and musical celebrations of holiday traditions from around the world, including German, Latin, American and beyond.

Crafted collaboratively by Dr. Flanders and Dr. Francom, Joy to the World! captures the essence of the season through its blend of timeless favorites and vibrant new interpretations. The program includes Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride, J.S. Bach’s Nur ein Wink, and the iconic Joy to the World, alongside works featuring  distinguished ISU Music Faculty  Diana Livingston Friedley, Jenna McLean, and Jon Armstrong. This cherished community tradition reflects the power of shared musical creation, offering moments of reflection, celebration, and joy as the year draws to a close.

Ahead of the December 13 performance, the Symphony will host a Holiday Dinner at 5:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy a festive buffet dinner and prime seating for the pre-concert chat with conductors Dr. Flanders and Dr. Francom at 6:30 pm. They will share insights on the creation and spirit of this year’s program to elevate the experiences of guests. Reservations for the dinner are available through December 9.

Throughout the concert weekend, the Symphony will also offer albums featuring Symphony musicians and guest artists, including the Symphony’s first album, Strata. Concertgoers are invited to “give the gift of local music” by purchasing albums from Jenna McLean, Jon Armstrong, Diana Livingston Friedley, Thom Hasenpflug, and Eddie Ludema before and after performances and during intermission.

Idaho State University students are invited to enjoy free snacks at 7 p.m. in the lobby by presenting their student ID at the welcome table.

Tickets are available now through the Stephens Performing Arts Center Box Office, online at isu.edu/tickets, or by calling (208) 282-3595. Ticket prices range from $9 to $47. ISU students and Shoshone-Bannock Tribe members receive free admission with valid ID.

For more information about concerts, tickets, and supporting the Symphony, please visit iscsymphony.org.