St. Cecilia Chamber Choir will present its 20th anniversary Christmas Concert on two dates at two venues. On Friday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m., the performance will be at the Second Congregational Church in Newcastle on Main Street. Then it’s off to Bowdoin's College Chapel in Brunswick Saturday, Dec. 12 for a 4 p.m. concert.

The Choir will be joined by a chamber orchestra and professional vocal soloists for Part I of Handel’s “Messiah;” the world premiere performance of new music by Richard Francis, and “Fantasia on Christmas Carols,” by Ralph Vaughan Williams.

Known as “the Christmas portion” of the beloved work, Part I of “Messiah” tells the King James version of the Old Testament prophesies of Jesus’ birth, the annunciation to Mary, the birth of Christ, the angels’ visit to the shepherds, and the angels’ rejoicing as they return to heaven.

The concert concludes with the addition of the joyful “Hallelujah” Chorus. The Choir will be joined soprano Nina Tilander, alto Jazmin DeRice, tenor David Myers, Jr., and bass Joshua Miller.

Works by Maine composer Richard Francis have been heard across the United States, and the Choir is excited to premiere two new works composed especially for its 20th anniversary concert. “O Magnum Mysterium” includes the use of bells to evoke the mystery of the incarnation, while the exuberant “Hodie” celebrates the joys of Christmas.

Tickets are $15 for adults and free to students, available in advance at Maine Coast Book Shop, Sherman’s Books and Stationery, Treat’s, online at ceciliachoir.org, and at the door.