Stuart Chatetz conducts the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra at the "Yuletide Celebration" held on Dec. 1 at the Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts. Jessica Anny/The Lion's Roar

The “Yuletide Celebration” was held at the Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts.

The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra performed for the holiday season on Dec. 1.

Hannah Yim was the concertmaster of the orchestra. Yim’s favorite part of the concert was everyone dressing up and getting in the holiday spirit. She also enjoyed being the concertmaster.

“We had one rehearsal for this, and basically that’s just standard for holiday concerts,” said Yim. “We prepared our music before we had it in advance. Being concertmaster, I had to bow all the strings for the concert. I got to be concertmaster about three weeks ago. What happens then is everyone says their part according to what I bow.”

Lauren Hebert attended the concert with her grandmother like she did last year.

“I came this year because I came with grandma last year, and we loved it,” said Hebert. “So far, I think it’s great. It was a little different than last year, but I still got into the Christmas mood and was able to enjoy it. My favorite song so far has been the ‘Little Drummer Boy.’”

Mary Stone attended the concert for the first time and enjoyed it. Stone was glad she came to the concert and got to experience the music the orchestra played.

“I wasn’t planning on coming, but then I decided to because I’ve heard good things about them,” said Stone. “I hope to come back when they preform again because I was really impressed.”

Principal Timpani Jim Atwood discussed his experience at the concert.

“We hardly ever come to the rehearsals without having already looking at the music,” said Atwood. “It was a great audience. They really responded well to the music. Everything we do at Christmas, I really enjoy.”

Violinist Judith Armistead Fitzpatrick shared her thoughts on the concert.

“I liked the arrangement on ‘Nutcracker,’” said Fitzpatrick. “I really like our conductor. He makes it a lot of fun. We get to wear a little Christmas bling, and that made it fun too.”