Friday, December 4, 7:30 pm, St. Ambrose Cathedral, Sixth Avenue and High Street, downtown Des Moines

The Lessons, Carols, and Reflections of Christmas

Umeri, the Drake University alumni choir, presents its beloved Christmas concert with a brass quintet at St. Ambrose Cathedral.

Celebrate the joy and wonder of the holiday season at Umeri’s festive Christmas concert! Umeri is the popular Drake University alumni choir led by Dr. Aimee Beckmann-Collier.

Umeri presents its harmonious voices with a brass quintet and other instrumentalists, in the intimate setting of St. Ambrose Cathedral. Ring in the Christmas season with uplifting music, heartwarming carols, and reflections that capture the spirit of the holidays.

Sing along to popular carols “God Rest You Merry, One and All,” “The First Nowell,” and “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing.” As for the rest of the music—simply relax, and let the Umeri singers fill the cathedral with their unforgettable sound.

Reflections will be read by well-known community members such as Napoleon Douglas (Pyramid Theatre Company, NOCE, etc.), Craig Ihnen (Iowa High School Speech Association) and Joyce Rupp (best-selling author and retreat leader).

“December can often overwhelm and over-stimulate people,” said Dr. Beckmann-Collier. “This concert is a gift meant to provide joy in beauty, an opportunity for reflection, and a chance to revel in words and music. It invites us to ponder what it means to be human.”

There is no admission charge for the concert, but RSVPs are appreciated. Free will donations are welcome.

RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2003996802382?aff=oddtdtcreator

Spring concert TBA

Umeri’s 2025-26 Season

Sunday, October 5, 2:00 pm – Sheslow Auditorium

Into One Song–featuring Alex Berko’s Sacred Place and the Mozart Missa brevis in FM, KV 192 with chamber orchestra