After last year’s standing room only performance at the Folk Arts Center, the Blue Ridge Orchestra will present this year’s annual Family Holiday Concert twice, in two venues at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the Colonial Theatre in Canton, and December 9 at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9, at the Folk Arts Center, in Asheville.

Music Director Milton Crotts has designed the program titled “Music, Mirth & Good Cheer, ” featuring selections from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite and Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel.  Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride and Troika (Three Horse Sleigh) from Prokofiev’s Lt. Kije are reminders of the winter pastime, while Bugler’s Holiday showcases the bright tones of the Blue Ridge Orchestra trumpet section.

“Good Tidings of Great Joy,” A Christmas narrative for orchestra, will be narrated by Miguel Cooper, of the Asheville School, contrasting with Pizzicato Polka by Johann Strauss — a Viennese New Year’s tradition.

Comprised of nearly 75 volunteers, the Blue Ridge Orchestra has been presenting symphony concerts in Western North Carolina since 1999.  These accomplished amateur, semi-professional and professional musicians volunteer their time and talents to make orchestral music more accessible to WNC.

Tickets are available at blueridgeorchestra.org or at the door, although seating may be limited. Email miriamw6@juno.com.