The Governor Wolf Historical Society presents "A Concert by Candlelight, Drive the Cold Winter Away," 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12, Wolf Academy, 6600 Jacksonville Road, Bath.

The Governor Wolf Historical Society aims to preserve the Lehigh Valley's rich historic heritage. The Society is responsible for restoring Bath's Siegfried Log Cabin and Ralston-McKeen house and for coordinating local archaeological digs at these sites. The Society also provides school children with educational programs that teach about life in the Lehigh Valley in the 18th and 19th centuries.

For the organization's winter concert, "A Concert by Candlelight," Robert Mouland, a musician and historian from Berks County, will portray Michael Keane, an Irish harper who emigrated to America in 1754.

Mouland has played at such prominent historical institutions as the City Tavern in Philadelphia and Mount Vernon in Virginia. His holiday performance will include the playing of the Wire-strung Irish harp, the hurdy-gurdy, the Baroque flute and the English guitar.

"I play many 18th century antique instruments," says Mouland in a phone interview. "This is the actual music Thomas Jefferson heard on the instruments of the time."

Mouland fully steps into the persona of Michael Keane, wearing period garb and affecting an Irish brogue. "I interact with the audience during the performance. At the end, I drop character and take questions."

Mouland is looking forward to the holiday performance on the Governor Wolf campus. "These small settings are a perfect venue for this type of performance. These instruments were never meant to be concert instruments. In their proper setting, they create wonderfully intimate experiences."

During the concert, the audience will also learn how the holidays were celebrated by those who lived in the Lehigh Valley during the 18th century.

Refreshments will be served. Tickets are expected to be available at the door.

Ticket information: govwolf.org