American composer Gwyneth Walker will premiere a new work at the annual Service of Lessons and Carols at the First Congregational Church in Cheshire on Dec. 19th at 4 p.m.

The piece, “Alpha and Omega,” is based on three familiar Christmas carols, and is arranged for brass quintet, percussion, and chorus. The church, shown at right, is located on the Town Green.

The traditional candlelight service tells the story of Christ’s birth through song and word. In addition to the debut of Walker’s work, scripture and poetry will be read, and the congregation will sing familiar Christmas carols.

Walker is a graduate of the Hartt School of Music and has written more than 200 works. A former member of the Oberlin College Conservatory, she has pursued composing full-time for nearly 30 years, and is one of the most-performed living American composers.