Although regarded as a traditional and somewhat conservative composer, Saint-Saens was associated with composer considered modern and edgy, like Franz Liszt and Richard Wagner. Saint-Saens' Christmas Oratorio was written in 11 days in December 1858, his first year as organist of the Church of the Madeleine, a position filled later by Gabriel Faure. The Latin text comes from the Divine Office and from the Midnight Mass for Christmas. The solos and ensembles are highly regarded, especially the lyrical trio Tecom Principium in Die Virtutis Tuae ("With You in the Day of Your Virtue").

The ensemble will also perform the Concerto Pastorale by Italian composer Gaetano Maria Schiassi, who composed operas, oratorios and instrumental music. His concerto was composed in the tradition of Italian instrumental works that were performed at Christmas midnight Mass. The concert concludes with three traditional carols arranged by the famed English composer and conductor, David Willcoks. The concert begins at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2, in Arrupe Hall auditorium. Director Timothy L. McDonald, Ph.D., will present Live Program Notes at 6:15 p.m.