THE SANTA FE DESERT CHORALE believes in the power of music—especially during the holidays—to connect with loved ones and make cherished memories. “It’s the thing, especially chorale music,” says artistic director Joshua Habermann. “Singing together is a tradition we’ve had for centuries. Especially when the nights are long and the light is short and people gather together.”

The Desert Chorale’s annual holiday festival gathers more than 20 vocalists from across the country to perform beloved carols and Renaissance music at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, in Santa Fe, and Immanuel Presbyterian Church, in Albuquerque. “It’s like an all-star team,” Habermann says. “The music is exceptional, and the relationships between singers are really strong.” Here’s a preview of what you can expect.

Renaissance music. “These songs sound incredibly beautiful in the cathedral,” says Habermann of selections that include Jean Mouton’s “Nesciens Mater.” “They are these soaring ancient songs.”

Contemporary carols. “We sing songs people love and associate with this time of year,” he says of the repertoire, which often includes “White Christmas” and “Silent Night.”

Spanish language songs. “We want to represent the local culture,” he says. Selections include “El Nacimiento” from Ariel Ramírez’s Navidad Nuestra. “We collaborate with instrumentalists, but the choir is the star of the show.”