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Lee University’s music ensemble Advent Now! will present a concert on Tuesday, Nov.14 at 7:30 p.m. in the Lee University Chapel.  

The ensemble will perform pieces from a variety of different genres celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas. The concert will feature holiday songs such as “Go Tell it on the Mountain,” “Mary Did You Know,” and “Sweet Little Jesus Boy.”  

Advent Now! is a chamber ensemble composed of a select group of musicians and vocalists from the School of Music’s students and faculty, including Dursun Asik, tenor; Will Duncan, electric bass; Hasani Hunt, baritone; Dr. Amy Humberd, an adjunct professor of clarinet and recruitment coordinator for the School of Music, on clarinet; Caroline Layton, mezzo soprano; Garrett Miller, piano; Dr. Austin Patty, director of Advent Now!, on violin; Tess Varlack, a recent graduate with a Master’s degree in music performance, as soprano; and Jeroy Watson, drum set.  

“We have an amazing group of musicians, with a heart to share the joy of Christmas!” said Patty, professor of music theory at Lee. “Several students in the group are remarkable jazz musicians, and our concert will highlight some of their talents. I am so inspired when we pray together as a group. It is moving to hear members asking God to open the hearts and minds of people in Japan to hear the good news.”  

Advent Now! has traveled to Japan during the Christmas season five times. After a break due to Covid travel regulations, the group will return to Japan this December to perform and explain the spiritual significance of Christmas. Dr. Arden Jensen will accompany the group and present an informative talk during the ensemble’s performances.  

“Christmas is a great time to go to Japan, as people in Japan are interested in Christmas music and traditions, but typically know little about its significance,” said Patty. “These concerts provide a way for them to hear why Jesus came.”    

The Nov. 14 concert is free, non-ticketed, and open to the public.  

For more information about Advent Now! or to donate, visit www.facebook.com/AdventNow.