Founded in 1979 the Vocal Arts Ensemble is the Cincinnati area's premier professional chorus. Its core of twenty-four singers have been acclaimed for their artistry and interpretation of a diverse repertoire which includes an emphasis on the introduction of recent contemporary works by American composers, as well as masterworks and miniatures of the sixteenth through twentieth centuries.

Recorded by WGUC, this concert is an annual tradition for lovers of Christmas and choral music.

This year's concert features some favorite traditional European carols newly arranged for the VAE and Canterbury Brass Quintet. Some a cappella jewels of the Renaissance and newly composed music constrast spirituals, folksongs, and multiple-choir spatial works that surround the audience in sound.

Frank Ferko: Motet for the Nativity of the Mother of God
Frank Ferko: Motet for the Annunciation
Eric Whitacre: Lux Aurumque
Richard Dering: Quem vidistis, pastores – Shepherds, what did you see?
Samuel Scheidt: In dulci jubilo
Allan Bevan: The Time Draws Near the Birth of Christ
Michael Praetorius: Dances from Terpsichore
Derek Holman, arr.: The Holly and the Ivy
J.A. Ryther, arr.: O come, O Come Emanuel
Derek Holman, arr: Il est né le divin enfant
Howard Cable, arr.: The Twelve Days of Christmas

John Tavener: Ikon of the Nativity
Aaron Jay Kernis: Dorma, ador
Vera Kistler: Stopping by the Woods on a Snowy Evening
Linda Spevacek Avery, arr.: Riu, Riu, Chiu
David Brunner: Winter Changes
Elenor Daly: The Sugarplum Tree
Doreen Rao: Hashivenu
Howard Cable, arr.: O Christmas Tree
Derek Holman, arr.: Deck the Halls
Stephen McNeff, arr.: We Wish You a Merry Christmas