Tuba Christmas Dec. 8

The annual “Tuba Christmas” will be on performed at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Student Center lobby at Southwest Minnesota State University.

There will be a 9 a.m. rehearsal in the SMSU band room, FA 135.

Participation for this band is open to all low brass players regardless of age or experience. There is a $10 fee for participation in the event.

The concert is free and open to the public.

For more information contact John Ginocchio at john.ginocchio@smsu.edu, or by phone at 507-537-7209.

SMSU Jazz Ensemble to perform Dec. 10

The Southwest Minnesota State University Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of John Ginocchio, will perform “Celestial Music: An Out Of This World Musical Experience” at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 10, in the Fine Arts Theatre on campus.

This concert is free and open to the public.

For more information contact John Ginocchio at john.ginocchio@smsu.edu or by phone 507-537-7209.

Holiday Cheer Dec. 13

The Southwest Minnesota Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Daniel Rieppel, will perform “Holiday Cheer” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, at the Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Marshall.

The church is located at 503 West Lyon St.

There will be a reception following the concert in Carlin Hall, located in the church basement, where refreshments will be served.

The concert is a fund-raiser for the Southwest Minnesota Orchestra. It is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted.

‘Star of Wonder’ Planetarium shows at SMSU

A series of Christmas Planetarium shows titled “Star of Wonder” will be presented at Southwest Minnesota State University leading up to holiday.

The 2018 shows will be: Saturday, Dec. 15, Friday, Dec. 21, and Saturday, Dec. 22, from 7-8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 23, and Monday, Dec. 24, from 2-3 p.m. in the SMSU Planetarium, located in the Science and Technology building, room 108.

What was the Star of Bethlehem? Was the “star” a planet or maybe a supernova? Is there a scientific explanation for the “star?” In this program, the steps of the Magi are retraced in their 600-mile search for the Star of Bethlehem. Educational and entertaining, “Star of Wonder” uses scientific data, religious history, beautiful imagery and traditional music to explore the mystery that has puzzled astronomers and theologians for centuries. This production offers several possible explanations for the famous star-like object that, according to historical records, led the wise men and shepherds to the place of Christ’s birth.

Was the Star of Bethlehem a planet, a comet, a meteor, a supernova? Or was it simply an unexplainable phenomenon? This show also explores how astronomers use historical records and scientific calculations to determine the time of Christ’s birth, and shows how planets move and meet with stars and how calendars have changed through the ages.

Tickets are $5 at the door. Arrive early to ensure a ticket and good seat.

For more information or questions email: ken.murphy@smsu.edu.