Mission Dolores Basilica Choir's 18th Candlelight Christmas Concert December 13, 2009

Sun, Dec 13, 5-7pm; Also Sun, Dec 6, 4pm, St.Gabriel's Church, 2559 40th Avenue at Ulloa

The Mission Dolores Basilica Choir will perform its 18th Annual Candlelight Christmas Concert, a stirring and inspiring experience that promises to be the perfect way to usher the Christmas season.

The beautiful acoustics of the Basilica will enhance the sounds of the internationally renowned choir, the resident community choir of Mission Dolores. Mission Dolores Basilica is adjacent to Mission San Francisco de Asis, the oldest building in San Francisco, and one of the twenty one California Missions established by Father Junipero Serra in the 18th century.

Under the direction of conductor Jerome Lenk, the concert will feature Vivaldi's Magnificat and selections from various periods in music history, including a 17th-century Huron carol, a Mexican-American lullaby and Medieval carols. As always the program will conclude with an audience sing-along of popular carols.

San Francisco Auxiliary Bishop William Justice is an ardent supporter of the choir. "Their artistry is unparalleled among church-based choirs in San Francisco," says the former pastor of Mission Dolores Basilica. "Their Christmas concert is the perfect way to usher in the joy of the season," he adds.

Refreshments after the concert at a complimentary reception in the Parish Hall. Concert begins at 5pm. Tickets are $25 reserved, $18 premium general and $15 general admission, and are available at Mission Dolores, by calling 415.621.8203 or visiting www.missiondolores.org.

Additional concerts:
Saturday, December 6 at 7pm at Saint Gabriel Church, 2559 40th Avenue between Ulloa and Vicente, San Francisco, CA. Suggested donation is $15.

Free parking at each concert venue. Accessible via J-Church, MUNI 22, 33, 14, 49 and Market/Church Underground Station, and via BART 16th Street Station.

Proceeds of the concert will benefit the Music Program of the Mission Dolores Basilica.

Official Website: http://www.missiondolores.org/events/concert.php