Especially at Christmas, the hills are "alive with the sound of music." And it's not just country and western music, either.

Both Austin and San Antonio boast professional symphony orchestras that traditionally host performances during the holiday season of such memorable pieces as Handel's Messiah. Both cities also hold various volunteer ensembles that show the widespread musical talent in the Hill Country.

I'd like to tell you about two exciting volunteer ensembles that provide classical music for the public all year, but especially during the Christmas season.

I am a member of the Hill Country Community Orchestra, which performs free concerts in the Georgetown-Round Rock area about once a month from September to May. The symphony orchestra was formed in 2002 to provide a "professional" atmosphere for non-professional adult musicians, and has rapidly grown to include 65 members. Their holiday concerts will be held December 9 and 10 this year.The Hill Country Youth Orchestras

The Hill Country Youth Orchestras in Kerrville include four separate ensembles varying by the age and skill levels of participants. The Vivace Strings, Con Moto, Cavatina and Hill Country Youth Orchestra showcase the impressive talents of young Hill Country musicians. A highlight of the year is a performance of Handel's Messiah each December. The orchestras, which grew out of a Suzuki Strings program in 1995, generally hold five concerts a year at the First United Methodist Church in Kerrville.

Hill Country residents who have never attended one of these concerts don't know what they are missing! The Christmas concerts, especially, are memorable and inspiring events; you will be amazed at the skill of our local, "non-professional" musicians as they exercise their God-given talents for your enjoyment.

Though most of the concerts are free, both these groups welcome (tax-deductible!) contributions to help with their considerable expenses. For more information, visit their websites at hillcountrycommunityorchestra.org and hillcountryyouthorchestras.com.