With the holiday season upon us, Christmas music is all around. 

But what elements of songs make them truly “Christmasy” and evoke strong emotions? Dr. Michael Culloton, director of choral activities and artistic director of the Concordia Christmas Concert, shared his expertise on capturing the Christmas spirit on a recent on Prairie Public Broadcasting.

_{Dr. Michael Culloton conducting during a Concordia Christmas Concert}

He emphasized the deep connections that resonate with listeners ranging from the Christian background of Christ's birth to secular elements like Santa Claus and winter imagery.

Culloton also touched on how the college’s concert connects global holiday traditions.

“An important aspect of the Concordia experience is how we can connect with the world,” Culloton said. “We travel the world both physically and metaphorically through all of the music that we select. And Christmas can be one of those same times of the year where we do that same thing.”

The Christmas concert is Dec. 1-3 in Moorhead and Dec. 7 at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis. For those unable to attend in person, a one-hour video version will be available later, providing an opportunity to experience the magic of the concert from the comfort of home. All details can be found at .