The 2025 ETSU Holiday Concert, “Glory Shone Around,” will be held on Dec. 5 and 6 at the ETSU Foundation Grand Hall at the Martin Center for the Arts.

For decades, families throughout the region have marked the start of their holiday season the same way: gathering to hear East Tennessee State University musicians fill the air with the sounds of the season.

This year’s Holiday Concert, titled “Glory Shone Around,” continues that beloved tradition with performances that blend cherished classics and exciting new works.  

“This is such a special ETSU tradition, and it has become an important annual part of the holiday for many people,” said Dr. Alan Stevens, chair of the Department of Music. “There’s something magical about experiencing live music during the holidays, and this concert brings together the best of what ETSU has to offer in one unforgettable evening.”

When is the ETSU Holiday Concert?

The department offers three chances over two days to enjoy the concert:  

Friday, December 5 – 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 6 – 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

All performances take place at the ETSU Foundation Grand Hall at the Martin Center for the Arts.

What Makes This Concert Special?

More than 250 student and faculty musicians will share the stage, creating the kind of spectacular performance that only happens once a year. The sheer scale of talent, combined with the intimate setting of the Grand Hall and the beauty of the season’s most beloved music, creates an experience that recordings simply can’t capture.

This is live music at its finest – where you feel the harmony resonating through the hall, see the joy on the performers’ faces and become part of a community moment that defines what the holidays mean to so many families across the region.

Who Will Be Performing?

The concert features ETSU's finest vocal and instrumental ensembles, including:

  • ETSU Chorale
  • BucsWorth Tenor Bass Choir
  • East Tennessee Belles Soprano Alto Choir
  • Greyscale Jazz Choir
  • ETSU Orchestra
  • ETSU Percussion Ensemble
  • Faculty Brass Quintet
  • Special guest musicians

The diverse mix of choirs, orchestras and ensembles ensures variety throughout the evening, with each group bringing their unique sound to holiday favorites and new arrangements you've never heard before.

How can I get tickets?

Tickets are available now through the Martin Center Box Office:

  • Phone: Call (423) 439-2787
  • Walk-up: Tickets available at the door

Stevens recommends purchasing tickets in advance to secure your preferred performance and seating.