Behind the scenes: Rehearsals for holiday concert at Music Center *

The musical groups selected to perform in the annual holiday celebration at the Music Center on Christmas Eve get 20 minutes each to rehearse — in one day-long marathon on the fourth floor of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. LA Observed was there Saturday to observe the feat of logistics, choreography and patience.

This year's free concert by the county Arts Commission, the 52nd annual event, is from 3 to 6 p.m. Admission is first come, first served. The concert airs live on KCET-TV and KPFK-FM.

* Edited: I originally called the musicians amateurs, but actually the acts are a mix of professionals and community groups.

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