From “Joy to the World” to “O Holy Night,” Christmas carols have become a lasting holiday tradition, and one local group wants to help spread the Christmas cheer through joyful song and celebration.

The Concordia College-Selma Choir will hold a free fall concert Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. inside the school’s Wright Auditorium.

Under the direction of Minnie McMillan, choir director, the concert will include music ranging from gospel to Negro spirituals to Christmas music, with special selections from the Tabernacle Baptist Church choir.

“We invite the community and all those who love music to join us for this special celebration,” McMillan said. “We look forward to praising the Lord with joy. We’re also excited about our guest choir.”

Concordia director of communications Christine Weerts said the choir has worked hard this fall to learn material for next Thursday’s event, and members are excited.

“Our college is blessed with so much talent academically, athletically and artistically,” Weerts said. “We are looking forward to showcasing our excellent college choir in this concert to help lift spirits as we lift praises to God. We hope the community will join us and support our young singers … start your holiday on the right note.”

The choir will also take up donations to help in the purchase of new choir uniforms, which will debut during a future concert.

For more information about the concert or how you can help, call 874-5700.