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Grammy-Winning Tenor Aaron Blake Hosts King University’s “A Very Bristol Christmas”

October 1, 2025
A smiling man in a tuxedo adjusts his bow tie. Text reads: “King University’s A Very Bristol Christmas hosted by Aaron Blake. December 17th, 7:00 PM, Paramount Bristol. Special guests include Kris Truelson and more.”.

In a joyful observance of holiday tradition, King University Artist in Residence Aaron Blake will host a special community Christmas concert at the Paramount Center on Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025, at 7 p.m.

Mr. Blake, an internationally acclaimed tenor who regularly appears with The Metropolitan Opera and many other houses and symphonies around the globe, will present “A Very Bristol Christmas,” an exciting evening of classic and contemporary favorites. The program includes beloved selections from Handel’s “Messiah” and Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas, among others.

Special guests joining Mr. Blake include acclaimed singer and songwriter Kris Truelsen of Farm and Fun Time® and virtuoso cellist Dave Eggar & Bristol Lightning. Additional guests include composer and accompanist Steve Sensenig, members of the State Line Wind Symphony, dancers from Bristol Ballet, bagpiper Liam Horne, performers from King’s Chorale, and students from the John S. Battle and Abingdon High School chorales, among others.

Tickets are now on sale at the Paramount Center and range from $15-35. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will go to the King Fund for Scholarships & Programs.

“Aaron is an amazing ambassador for the arts in higher education,” said Matt Roberts, Ed.D., provost at King. “His ability to recognize and cultivate the musical talents of young artists is a gift that has brought joy to students at King and throughout our region, and we’re grateful for his continual elevation of the arts in our community.”

As part of his role as Artist in Residence, Mr. Blake offers classroom visits and masterclasses for high school and university-level students in the Tri-Cities region. For information on upcoming events, visit www.king.edu/events, or email [email protected] with inquiries.

“Music is a universal joy that unites us all, and I’m so glad to share this wonderful time of year with my hometown community,” Mr. Blake said. “I look forward to welcoming our many special guests and celebrating the magic and significance of Christmas together.”