Religious or secular, we welcome the approaching season of lights and good cheer, good food, gathering with family and friends, and music, music, music.

The sounds of the season can be enjoyed in a host of settings that highlight good will and joy for those who celebrate Christmas and Chanukah, and all of us who give thanks for the good things in our lives.

Don’t miss the Stewart Hall Singers

A 40-member community choir, they perform in December and May at the Église St-Joachim in Pointe-Claire. Directed by Douglas Knight, the choir was was founded in 1971 by the late Pierre Perron.

They sing choral music ranging from classical to modern and are committed to engaging young musicians. The program for December 7 includes Joseph Haydn’s Paukenmesse: Mass in C Major, with soloists and orchestra, followed by Christmas selections.

Tickets: stewarthallsingers.ca or 514-697-2952

Lyric Singers at Loyola till Dec. 8

The Lyric Theatre Singers will once again engage audiences at Loyola Chapel of Concordia, 7141 Sherbrooke W, singing holiday fare. Directed by Bob Bachelor, the menu ranges from classical carols to traditional folk songs with film favourites and Broadway tunes.

Dry goods or monetary donations for The Depot would be appreciated.The concerts are Dec. 5 & 6, at 8 pm, Dec. 7 at 4pm, and Dec. 8 at 1:30pm. $33; seniors and students $30; Children 12- $16. To reserve: 514-743-3382.

Orchestre Classique de Montréal

Handel’s Messiah, a holiday favou- rite for the Orchestre Classique de Montréal, will be performed for the first time Dec. 8 at 3pm in the Crypt of Saint-Joseph’s Oratory. Boris Brott, the artistic director, will conduct. A total of 60 singers in three ensembles – Les chantres musiciens, Les filles de l’Île, and the OCM’s choir – will give the music depth and richness.

Tickets: $10-$60 orchestre.ca or call 514-487-5190.

Lyrics and Latkes at the Segal

A great way to celebrate Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, is to take in an afternoon of traditional and not-so-traditional songs associated with the holiday.

It happens to be the first night of the eight-day holiday, beginning Dec. 22 and after lighting a traditional candle and singing a few songs associated with the holiday, the crew of about 50 — representing three generations — will perform some of the most popular songs of the repertoire of the Dora Wasserman Yiddish Theatre.

It’s all happening on the main stage at the Segal Centre, and yes, latkes, will be served after the last note is sounded. $25. Seniors pay $22. Students and under 30 pay $18.

segalcentre.org or 514-739-7944