Popular Christian music vocalist David Phelps performs at 4 p.m. Nov. 30, State Theatre, 453 Northampton St., Easton.

Phelps is well-known for his three-octave full-voice range and his ability to sing a sustained note for a long period. He has released numerous successful albums as a Christian solo artist and as a tenor in the Southern Contemporary Christian vocal group, The Gaither Vocal Band.

Phelps grew up in a small town in Texas, surrounded by a family of musicians. His sister, Kari, plays trumpet in his touring band. "We were born into a music family," he says in a phone interview. "It went from there."

Raised on such diverse music influences as the Houston Grand Opera, gospel music, Dolly Parton, Journey, Queen and 1980's Christian music, Phelps brings a piece of each of his influences into his music today. "Anyone who knows my work, can hear all my influences in my music."

Phelps has been performing Christmas shows for almost two decades. "I love Christmas music. Christmas music reinforces hope. Everyone has moments of doubt. That's why they call it 'faith.'

"I love spiritual music because it is such a deep concept. "The well never runs dry with ways to tell that story of the hope that was extended to humanity."

Phelps describes his Christmas show as "a family-oriented concert." Songs like "Away In A Manger," "Silent Night," and his trademark version of "Oh, Holy Night" are staples of his Christmas tour.

"It's a family-oriented show. From kids to grandparents to everything in between, we can come together as a family and all find something to enjoy.

"I try to weave the story of hope into the performance in a way that the audience can feel the true message of Christmas."

Tickets: State Theatre Box Office, 453 Northampton St., Easton; statetheatre.org, 1-800-999-STATE, 610-252-3132