Festival of Carols returns to Alma

LILLIE ROUTOWICZ
STAFF WRITER

11/17/2025

On Nov. 22 at 7 pm and Nov. 23 at 3 pm, Alma College’s Choir, Chorale, Acapella, and Orchestra will bring together the campus and community in Presbyterian Hall for a night of festive music and fun. The annual Festival of Carols will include familiar arrangements, including several holiday favorites composed by Gwyneth Walker, Benjamin Britten, Joan Szymko, and John Rutter.

Founded by former choir director and professor of music, Will Nichols, the Festival of Carols has brought the Alma community and the college campus together to celebrate the true meaning behind the holiday season for over forty years. The music evokes feelings of nostalgia in members of the community, while simultaneously creating cherished holiday memories for the first time for Alma’s younger generations.

“I think that the community anticipates the Festival of Carols every year. It is one of the biggest events of the season in the area. I cannot imagine a holiday season without the Festival of Carols in Alma,” said Takeshi Abo, conductor of the Alma Chamber Orchestra.

This year’s festival will incorporate both traditional tunes like Angels from the Realms of Glory, O Come All Ye Faithful, as well as newer, household favorites like God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen and Santa Claus is Coming to Town, performed by the acapella groups. 

“There is something for everyone to enjoy at the Festival of Carols this year. Choosing repertoire is one of my favorite elements of putting together a concert,” said Nicole Mattfeld, director of choirs and assistant professor of music at Alma College. “I enjoy programming familiar holiday favorites, but arranged in a new way that makes it seem fresh to the ears of the audience. I love starting and ending the concert with all of the musicians—both singers and instrumentalists—onstage together, making wonderful music. The collaborative efforts of this concert are what make it special and unique each year,” said Mattfeld.

The students involved in the festival this holiday season are looking forward to branching out and diversifying the music selection. “We’ve been focusing on including and appreciating songs from other traditions and cultures, which I’m really proud of, and I can’t wait to showcase them,” said Evelina Glaves (’26), a member of both the Alma College Choir and Acapella.

Alongside Mattfeld, students have been working hard to make this year’s festival one to remember. “We have been working on our songs since the week after our last concert at homecoming, said Logan Mollitor (’29), a member of the Alma College Choir.

Each year, students work their hardest to give the Alma community a magical night. “We’ve been working non-stop for the last two months to give our best for the Alma campus and community. Nothing beats the feeling of seeing a full audience who shares the same appreciation for us, and it’s rewarding for us as a choir knowing our hard work paid off,” said Glaves.

Tickets for the festival can be purchased online or at the door. “Dr. Mattfeld always says, ‘You always have something to sing about,’ and I hope we continue to spread our message of love, hope, and confidence to everyone this holiday season and inspire new people to sing,” said Glaves. Whether you are in the show or gearing up to purchase your ticket, the Festival of Carols is sure to send anyone singing all the way home.