Northfield, an a cappella vocal ensemble known for its renditions of early American and European music, will once again give voice to songs of seasonal celebration  in Western Maine. The group will be giving three concerts on the third weekend in December — one each in Farmington, Rangeley and Belgrade Lakes.

Northfield has been a part of seasonal celebrations in western Maine for more than 25 years. After missing last year’s holiday season, Northfield is back with a new, and slightly expanded, lineup.

 Formerly an intimate ensemble of eight voices, Northfield has always performed its music without instrumental accompaniment — in the ancient and beautiful style called a cappella, which is Latin for “in the chapel.” They have recruited some additional voices in the last year, adding three new voices to the group. Northfield remains true to its traditions, performing the musical styles of our ancestors, but also mixes varying styles and sounds.

 This year’s program, titled “Night and Day,”  is a reflection on the fact that the winter holidays happen at a very dark time of the year. Long,  dark nights encourage introspection and melancholy, which Northfield explores in John Wilbye’s “Draw On, Sweet Night,” an English madrigal about love’s longing. The mystery of the savior’s birth — in the dark of night — also is celebrated with songs, both familiar and unusual, as it has been for centuries.

Night, of course, leads to dawn; and winter to spring. Northfield’s celebrations of the season include ancient and traditional songs, as well as compositions of the great masters of the European Renaissance, including Monteverdi, Byrd and Gabrieli. Light-hearted, modern adaptations for the season — supplied by Garrison Keillor and Peter Schickele — are guaranteed to provide some laughs.

Northfield’s 2010 Christmas Concerts will be presented at the following times and locations: 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 17, at the Union Church in Belgrade Lakes; 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 18, at the Nordica Auditorium at the University fo Maine Farmington, and at 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 19 at the The Church of the Good Shepherd in Rangeley. Donations will be taken at the door for the concerts in Belgrade Lakes and Farmington. Admission to the Rangeley concert is $10.