The Concert Choir of Washington University — under the direction of John Stewart, director of vocal activities — will perform works from the Renaissance and American folk songs at 8 p.m. Dec. 9 in Graham Chapel.

The program is dedicated in memory of Elizabeth Gray Danforth, wife of Chancellor Emeritus William H. Danforth and the University's first lady for nearly a quarter-century, who passed away March 30 at the age of 75.

"During her many years of association with Washington University, Elizabeth Danforth faithfully supported its students in their various endeavors, including music-making," said Dolores Pesce, Ph.D., professor and chair of music.

"In appreciation of her support for our department, we dedicate this concert to her memory."

The department will host its annual sing-along of George Frideric Handel's oratorio Messiah at 3 p.m. Dec. 11 in Graham Chapel. The performance, which will last about an hour, will include the Christmas portion of Messiah as well as the "Hallelujah Chorus."

Those who wish to may sit in special sections arranged according to voice type (soprano, alto, tenor, baritone), though those who choose not to sing are also welcome to attend. Copies of the music will be available.

John Stewart will direct the performance, and William Partridge will be the organist. Soloists — all students or recent graduates of music's vocal performance program — will include soprano Megan Higgins; alto Jade Hornbaker; tenor Adam Cromer; and baritone Scott Levin.

At 8 p.m. Dec. 14 in Holmes Lounge, the music department will present a recital by campus chamber ensembles.

Finally, the Washington University Opera, directed by Jolly Stewart and conducted by John Stewart, will present "Two Operatic Cinderellas," a program of excerpts from Gioacchino Rossini's Cenerentola and Jules Massenet's Cendrillo, at 8 p.m. Dec. 16-17 in Umrath Hall Lounge.

All the concerts are free and open to the public.

For more information, call 935-4841 or e-mail staylor@wustl.edu.