Lake County Symphony Orchestra | Holiday Performance

Experience an extraordinary holiday concert featuring composer-conductor Jim Stephenson and guest vocalist Sara Sheffield — the first female vocalist in the history of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band — on Friday, December 12 at 7:30 PM.

This year’s program, Timeless Treasures, blends the warm nostalgia of the season with vibrant, original music. You’ll hear holiday classics and festive favorites — including arrangements of I Saw Three Ships, Joy to the World, and O Christmas Tree — woven together with Jim Stephenson’s inventive, emotionally compelling compositions.

As both composer and conductor, Jim Stephenson has been praised by Musical America, The Boston Herald, and the Chicago Tribune for writing music that is vividly scored, deeply felt, and full of personality.

We are proud to welcome Sara Sheffield, an acclaimed vocalist and former 20-year member of “The President’s Own” Marine Band, where she made history as the ensemble’s first female vocalist. A graduate of Texas Tech University and the University of Maryland, Sara has performed for presidents, dignitaries, national broadcasts, and audiences around the world. Her expressive musicianship and rich, compelling vocal style bring powerful depth to every performance.

This concert marks the first collaboration between Jim Stephenson and the Lake County Symphony Orchestra, and a rare chance to experience two extraordinary artists — conductor and soloist — together on one stage.

Gather family, friends, and festive cheer for a holiday celebration filled with joy, artistry, and music “deserving to be heard again and again.”