Yule’s Gold

With dozens of participants, Westmont College’s oh-so-popular 13th annual Christmas Festival at the First Presbyterian Church is undoubtedly the hottest ticket in town, with four performances staged to cater for the demand.

With the full force of the Montecito college’s music talent on display, including the orchestra, women’s and men’s chorale, and the chamber singers, the two-hour Yuletide spectacular was a glorious blend of traditional carols and other festive works.

Under the capable batons of Michael Shasberger, Grey Brothers, Steve Hodson, Nichole Dechaine, and Paul Mori, the talented musicians put on a beautiful display of classical music, wrapping up the sold-out concert with Gary Fry’s delightful “My Dancing Day, on Christmas Night”.

Always an exuberant and festive kickoff to the holiday season.