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Rocky Long
Appointed as MSU-WP’s first Director of Music in 2024, Long established the University/Community Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Pep Band. He teaches music appreciation, history and theory while actively recruiting students. Long plans to expand the program to include a vocal music initiative. (MSU-WP photo)

OHRC to host presentation on how holiday music has been shaped by a blend of cultural influences Dec. 9

The presentation will explore how holiday music has been shaped by a blend of cultural influences, including early folk traditions, religious hymns, and community storytelling.

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Officials with the Ozarks Heritage Research Center (OHRC) at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) will host a special presentation on “The Tale of the Carol: Exploring the Musical Traditions of Christmas” presented by Rocky Long at 6 p.m. at the Garnett Library on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025. This event is sponsored by West Plains Council on the Arts and the Ozarks Heritage Research Center. Refreshments provided.

About the Presentation

The presentation will explore how holiday music has been shaped by a blend of cultural influences, including early folk traditions, religious hymns, and community storytelling. Attendees will learn how carols evolved through migration, adaptation, and performance practice, reflecting both their European and Appalachian roots as well as the unique character of Ozark life. The event will look at the past, present, and the future of traditions that have made celebrating Christmas a meaningful and an enduring tradition.