Robert Shafer founded The Washington Chorus in 1971. A quarter century later, he conducts the 180-voice choir in the annual Christmas concert before stepping down from the podium amid the festivities of the holiday season he loves so dearly.

Once again, the chorus presents concerts in the Kennedy Center and the Music Center at Strathmore, a tradition begun last season in the new concert hall. As part of its Side by Side community education/outreach program, the organization continues its year-long commitment with a high school partner chorus.