Thanks, guys.

Marnell - Yeah, I thought of the spiraled LED strip option after I had already committed to the individual LED strips in aluminum channels.  I think the spiral would be a good option, especially if you could wrap it around a 3" diameter (or around there) metal tube to help dissipate heat.  It sure would reduce the amount of soldering required.   I'd definitely consider that option in the future if I need a similar lighting assembly.