Timothy Peter, DMA, knew these days were coming. Early in Fall Semester 2025, he talked about the emotions of what was to be his final Christmas Candlelight Concert.

About that fateful Dec. 6 concert, Peter, professor of Music, director of Choral Activities and Stetson’s beloved conductor, said: “I will certainly allow myself to be vulnerable and open as to what my emotions are. That’s who I am as a personality. It will be in a moment to reflect. … So, in those last eight or 10 minutes, I know I’m just going to be grateful that I’ve had that chance to have 40 years of Christmas concerts and 35 of those on a university campus with some of the greatest students ever.

“I’ll think about people in those last minutes, and how many people I’ve been touched by and had a chance to build a relationship with. … I’ll reflect on the blessings of my family, dear friends, and all those students and colleagues in those last few minutes.”

More finality is coming soon. On Friday, April 10, 7:30 p.m., at Lee Chapel, there will be a Concert Choir Performance for the ages, as Peter takes one last bow. After beginning his Stetson tenure in August 2012, he is retiring from the university, effective in May.

In the story “2025 Candlelight Christmas Concerts: Timothy Peter Conducts His final ‘Stetson Silent Night,’” School of Music Dean Washington Garcia, DMA, reflected on the impact of Peter’s 14 years at Stetson: “Through his vision and leadership, Dr. Timothy Peter has elevated our choral program to new levels of excellence and engagement. My admiration for him extends beyond his remarkable gifts as an educator to his genuine selflessness — always putting others first and fostering collaboration that unites colleagues, students and the broader community. In my career as both a musician and administrator, he stands out as one of the most positive and constructive colleagues I have ever had the privilege to work with.”

Lasting Impact

And that impact will no doubt continue.

Nicholas Dieux, a baritone Voice major who graduated last May, commented, “If it weren’t for Dr. Peter, I wouldn’t be an ounce of the person I am today.”

Junior Eloisy Mendonca Goncalves, a mezzo-soprano, described Peter as the “warmest soul” and an “inspiration for many,” whose “impact and legacy are deeply rooted.”

Following April 10’s approximately two-hour concert, which concludes with that final bittersweet bow, a reception will be held at the duPont-Ball Library.

It’s certainly an honor that resonates at Stetson and far beyond.

Special note: Please join us Friday, April 10 at 7:30 p.m. for the final Stetson Concert Choir performance of the academic year. The School of Music is preparing for a sold-out event on Friday and wants to remind anyone in the Stetson community who wishes to attend to please reserve their complimentary Stetson ID ticket in advance. If the Stetson ID field shows as sold out, please stop by the School of Music office in Presser Hall or call the office at 386-822-8950 to reserve a faculty/staff ticket. Cultural credit is not available for this event.

-Michael Candelaria