Concerted Efforts

The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra's members are probably going to need some help wrapping holiday gifts this year. But not because their present-packaging skills are weak — we're sure they can tie bows with the best of 'em — but because they're cranking out concerts with terrifying speed. Their hands must be aching! To ensure the musicians' hard work isn't for naught, check out at least one of the scheduled performances this weekend. Holiday Songbook is served up at Powell Symphony Hall (718 North Grand Boulevard) at 2 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday (December 14 through 16). At this sing-along, expect to hear favorites including "Joy to the World" and "O Chanukah" sung by Doug LaBrecque (pictured), who starred as the Phantom of the Opera on Broadway. Tickets for these shows cost $20 to $65 and can be purchased by calling 314-534-1700 or visiting www.slso.org. And for a little something different, head over to Grbic (4071 Keokuk Street) on Sunday for a performance by the Arda Ensemble of the SLSO. This concert, which happens from 7 to 9:30 p.m., focuses on music from Bosnia, and your $20 ticket also includes a buffet dinner.
Dec. 14-16, 2007