The UTM choral program hosted the 12th annual Dessert Evening this weekend at the Fine Arts Building and raised money to help fund its upcoming choral concert tour.

The University Singers, the New Pacer Singers and vocal soloists from the Department of Music performed during the event, which combines the best of musical talent with delectable desserts served several times throughout the evening.

The concert tour will take the University Singers and the New Pacer Singers to the Second Presbyterian Church in Chattanooga on Nov. 17, to the Church Street United Methodist Church in Knoxville on Nov. 18, to the Christ Church Cathedral in Nashville on Nov. 19 and back to Martin to the Harriet Fulton Theatre of the Fine and Performing Arts Building on Dec. 1.

All performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. except for the Martin performance, which is slated for 8 p.m. The concerts are free and open to the public.

The two choirs, with 40 singers, will perform a broad range of music, from 15th century English music to modern spirituals and lighter pop selections.

“The tour serves as an outreach undertaking that seeks to entertain and uplift Tennessee audiences through musical expression,” said Dr. Mark Simmons, UTM director of choral activities and assistant professor of music.

“The concerts, which last a little over an hour, are open to anyone who loves choral music, church music, student performances or simply loves to hear talented musicians in a live and generous setting,” Simmons said.