Holiday Music Celebration at UW-Whitewater Gala Benefit Concert
The Chamber Singers, Concert Choir, and Whitewater Symphony Orchestra captivated audiences with their performance of “Home Alone: Three Holiday Songs” during the UW-Whitewater Gala Benefit Concert held on December 6, 2025. The event attracted numerous music enthusiasts, transforming the venue into a vibrant celebration that marked the 30th anniversary of this cherished tradition, drawing inspiration from the enchanting world of cinema. Attendees were treated to an evening where the beauty of music intertwined with the allure of film, creating a memorable experience filled with uplifting melodies and stirring rhythms, all made possible by the magic of live performance.
This annual concert, a hallmark of the holiday season, not only delights attendees but also fosters a sense of community among student musicians and the residents of Whitewater. However, its primary purpose extends beyond entertainment. “The yearly Gala Benefit Concert highlights every ensemble in the Department of Music. This incredible event allows us to gather funds for scholarships that aid our talented music students,” stated Music Chair Christian Ellenwood.
Three Decades of Musical Tradition
Initiated thirty years ago, this event was designed to support students in securing scholarship funding through festive musical performances. Ellenwood emphasized, “The enduring nature of the Gala Benefit Concert is a testament to its significant impact on both the university and the local community. Celebrating the best aspects of humanity and the bonds we share through music is as vital now as it has ever been, and we are delighted that the gala has evolved into a beloved annual custom.”
Alumni and friends of the gala were invited to gather early for a cozy reunion at 5:30 p.m., complete with light snacks and cocktails. Emeritus Dr. Myung Hee Chung served as the event’s special guest, warmly welcoming patrons, alumni, and friends to commemorate this landmark occasion. As the clock struck 6:30 p.m., the venue buzzed with energy as every corner came alive with student ensembles delivering captivating performances.
Community Spirit and Holiday Cheer
While attendees immersed themselves in the music, they also had the chance to participate in a basket raffle featuring various prizes. Ellenwood shared, “As we approach the season of shorter days and longer nights, people seek beauty, connection, and the spirit of generosity. The Gala Benefit Concert fulfills this need year after year. The fact that we are celebrating our 30th year highlights the community’s appreciation for our mission and the exceptional quality of our music.”
The organization of this significant event draws on the collective efforts of the entire Music Department, with one individual taking the lead on decorations while receiving assistance from students. “This year, we are engaging music organizations to contribute to the décor of the Center of the Arts and The Young, incorporating a friendly competition to determine whose gingerbread house is the most beautifully decorated,” explained department assistant Kat Bastien.
This year’s thematic focus centered around beloved holiday films, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a festive movie scene, complete with twinkling lights and photo opportunities with iconic characters like The Grinch and the conductor from “The Polar Express.” Bastien noted, “The funds raised are crucial for music students, as the rigorous schedule of a music major is challenging, especially given the economic pressures that complicate their ability to dedicate time to perfecting their craft.”
Faculty Pride and Community Connection
Bastien expressed her enthusiasm for the vibrant energy that the department exudes and the rejuvenation of the Gala. The event serves as a wonderful means of uniting the community during the festive season. “The Gala Benefit Concert is the event that fills me with pride as a faculty member of the UW-Whitewater Department of Music,” Ellenwood remarked. “Organizing an event of this magnitude requires the full commitment, planning, and creativity of my colleagues and students, who collaborate in generous, artistic, and beautiful ways—all in support of one another and our community.”
Attendees unanimously agreed that the 30th annual UW-Whitewater Gala Benefit Concert was a dazzling tribute to music, legacy, and the timeless impact of live performances. The conductor from “The Polar Express” brought the beloved film to life alongside the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, further enhancing the enchanting atmosphere of this remarkable evening.
