Nashville Celebrates Christmas at Belmont

Christmas at Belmont Performance, Zach Watkins

Holiday spirit filled the Fisher Center this weekend for the annual performance and beloved tradition Christmas at Belmont. 

Although the three performances were not filmed and aired like last year, the production still showcased over 600 students of 14 different groups, ranging over several genres and varieties, bringing Christmas festivity to Belmont. 

“This year was a lot more relaxed and less stressful because we weren't filming it for Amazon. 
But I think every year is just so special, and it's always a little bit different, making it cherished in its own right,” said Voxology and Chorale singer Caroline Jennel. 

James Wigginton, who serves as an instructor of commercial voice and director of pop/rock ensemble group PHNX, returned to his role as host, kicking off the show by reflecting on the significance of the performance. 

“The sights, the sounds, the lights and hundreds, even thousands of hours put into this moment. It's an attempt to make a sacrifice for this, this worthy of Christ who is the reason you season,” said Wigginton.

The show brought a variety of musical styles, ranging from triumphant pieces like “Christmas Fanfare!” which brought all the groups together in a triumphant opener, to an experimental rendition of “We Three Kings” by the percussion ensemble, to a hushed acapella version of “I Wonder as I Wander” by Chorale sending chills through the audience. 

Among the 17 songs, Nashville’s variety of musical roots like folk, cozy jazz, big band sounds and upbeat and engaging pop performances were celebrated through different groups like Bluegrass Ensemble, Southbound, Company and Jazzmin.  

“I was amazed at how many different musical instruments they brought in. I thought that it was really fun to see all these differences. It kind of showcases everything that goes on here because they're such a diverse population, student-wise, and diverse musical interests and offerings and this performance really reflected that,” said audience member Eddie Walker. 

The audience not only took in the musical talent, but also were able to participate in “Angels We Have Heard on High,” giving the crowd a moment to feel a part of the show. 

Creating community is an integral part of Christmas at Belmont, not only for the audience, but for the musicians involved in production. 

“One of my favorite things to do is to get together and make music together. It happens so frequently here, but to get to share a stage with hundreds of musicians that I all get to call my friends and to make such beautiful music to share with the world it's a huge blessing. And it only happens once a year, so I’m very grateful for it," said Jazzmin and Chorale performer Logan Bressan. 

Another highlight for the show was the piece “Lamb of God” a theatrical rock pop piece arranged by Wigginton and performed by PHNX, followed by a gospel inspired rendition of the Hallelujah chorus with all groups on stage, creating a joyful finale to the 2025 Christmas at Belmont. 

For more Christmas at Belmont, watch the 2024 performance on December 1st when it re-airs on Amazon Prime. 

This article was written by Samantha Graessle