From First Presbyterian Church, Washington

The combined talents of the First Presbyterian Church’s Chancel Choir and nationally known opera soloists will combine to present “A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols on Sunday at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church in Washington.

“A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols” originated in England as a means of combining both the scripture readings prophesying Christ’s birth, the annunciation to Mary, the birth of Jesus, the visit of the angels to the shepherds and the journey of the Magi with choral and solo anthems. Arrangements of “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “Masters in This Hall” and “Were You There on That Christmas Night?” will be sung with selections from Handel’s “Messiah.”

Katherine Lakoski, dramatic soprano, Lori McLelland, soprano, Nathan Ward, tenor, and Calel Eick, bass-baritone, will be singing with the choir. All of these soloists are nationally known and have sung leading roles in operas and oratorios throughout the United States and Europe in major opera houses and symphonic orchestras.

The choir will be accompanied by a chamber orchestra composed of strings, woodwinds and organ, and instrumentalists known throughout North Carolina as the finest musicians in their respected fields.

This musical offering is open to the public free of charge. A nursery will be provided for all children under the age of 6. A gala reception will be held in the church’s social hall following the service.

The doors of the sanctuary will open to the public at 6:30 p.m. There is no reserved seating. The church is located at 211 W. Second St. in Washington.