"Christmas at Luther" takes a lot of planning and preparation

Setting up for the 2013 "Christmas at Luther"

Putting on performances of "Christmas at Luther" is no small task.  It's not just the 600 Luther College musicians who are involved.
 
In March an eight-person committee starts planning for December's concerts.  They select a theme for the program (This year's is "And on earth, peace") and then select music that fits to the theme.
 
Another group begins discussing a design for the backdrop at the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall—again selecting it to fit the theme.
 
In early October the music and artwork are finalized.  In November 2 hour rehearsals begin.  After Thanksgiving the rehearsals become 6-hour rehearsals.  Not only must the music be rehearsed, but everyone needs to work out the mechanics of choirs moving from location to locations.
Then, the first weekend in December are the performances.  It's not just music majors who are involved, either—many of the musicians are non-music majors.  That means having to fit in five performances of "Christmas at Luther" with all the other work they need to do for their classes.