In our humid, sweltering, Australian pre-Christmas weather, snow would be a welcome, unusual, but a relief!

Barbecues, the beach and air-conditioned comfort replace winter fires, roast dinners and cosy, family settings of our northern neighbours.

But we do share one universal tradition - the wonderful and inspiring music of Christmas, sung and played at venues throughout the world, regardless of climatic differences.

The Manning Valley Choral Society has arranged a very special performance of this music for Christmas on December 21.

An initiative of conductor Deirdre Sutherland, supported by an augmented choir of 40 voices and members of the recently formed youth choir, 'A Choral Christmas' is a recognition of Christmas in readings and musical selections from times past and present.

Featured are 14th, 15th and 16th century arrangements, such as 'This Little Babe' and 'Wolcum Yole'; Britten and Rutter compositions; and beautiful, familiar carols, such as 'I Saw Three Ships', in glorious four part harmonies.

Special guests, tenors P J Willis and Ronan King-Rose, provide youthful and authentic vocal embellishment which will delight lovers of superb music.

The presentation of these magnificent and expressive pieces faithfully reflect the birth of Christ, from the prophecy of Christ's arrival to the flight to Egypt.

Bible readings and narration will be provided by David Freeman, with the choir accompanied by the resilient and ageless Mrs Joan Saxby.

To be performed under the dome of the acoustically lauded Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Taree on Sunday, December 21, at 7, the choral society offers the gift of Christmas music to inspire and prepare you for Christmas Day.

Tickets are available at the door, $15 adults, $5 child, $30 family (two adults and two children) and under eight is free.