The Madison Symphony Orchestra kicked off the holiday season with their much-anticipated annual concert, "A Madison Symphony Christmas," on a Friday evening. The air was filled with the spirit of good cheer as the symphony filled the hall with beautiful melodies.

Experience the Magic of the Madison Symphony's Holiday Concert

Opening with "Joy to the World"

The concert began on a high note with a chest-swelling rendition of "Joy to the World." The chorus's angelic vocals combined with the organist Greg Zelek's brilliant arpeggios created a truly enchanting atmosphere. Midway through the song, the Madison Youth Choirs entered the aisles with candles, adding an extra touch of magic. Under Maestro John DeMain's cue, they enveloped the hall in glowing harmony.

This opening piece set the tone for the evening, showcasing the diverse talents of the orchestra and choirs. It was a perfect start to a night filled with musical delights.

The combination of the powerful chorus and the delicate arpeggios from the organ created a unique sound that captivated the audience from the very beginning.

Handel's "Messiah" Highlights

Following the opening piece, the orchestra performed two pieces from Handel's "Messiah." The first, "For Unto Us a Child is Born," was a prim and courtly affair featuring the chorus. Their voices filled the hall with a sense of reverence.

Then, Craig Irvin joined the orchestra for the baritone aria, "The Trumpet Shall Sound." Standing opposite trumpet soloist John Aley, he alternated between elaborate, full-bodied vocals and brass fanfares, creating a dramatic contrast.

These performances from Handel's "Messiah" demonstrated the orchestra's versatility and their ability to bring classical music to life.

20th Anniversary Celebration

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the MSO's first performance in Overture Hall and their first performance with the venue's concert organ. In honor of this milestone, the orchestra performed Richard Elliott's arrangement of "On Christmas Night," which includes several allusions to Camille Saint-Saën's "Organ Symphony."

Zelek's interpretation of the piece was a processional yet jaunty organ melody backed by fluttering piano, sweeping strings, and blaring trumpets. The performance earned a standing ovation, filled with hoots and hollers, as the audience showed their appreciation for this special anniversary.

The combination of the orchestra's performance and the significance of the anniversary made this a memorable moment in the concert.

Second Act Fun

Jumping from piece to piece, the concert loosened up in the second act. Instead of hymnal melodies, the orchestra played more familiar carols with a fresh twist. The Madison Youth Choirs brought a playful "Jingle Bells" to life, while a jazzy rendition of "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town" called to mind the jazz crooners of Christmas past.

Each piece was made unique by the talents of the orchestra and choirs, showing their ability to adapt to different styles and genres.

The change in tempo and mood in the second act added a new dimension to the concert, keeping the audience engaged and entertained.

South American Christmas Medley

A clear highlight of the evening was a South American Christmas medley featuring two pieces from Peru and Venezuela. Becerra, of Peruvian and Mexican descent, gave fun and fiery solos during both pieces. Her intricate, operatic vocals combined with toe-tapping, rhythmic melodies to create something truly unique.

As she swayed to the music, some in the audience were compelled to clap along, adding to the lively atmosphere of the concert.

This medley showcased the diversity of the music and the orchestra's ability to incorporate different cultures into their performances.

Closing with Gospel Choir Performances

Near the close of the evening, the Mount Zion Gospel Choir performed "What Child is This," "Mary Did You Know," and "Christmas Greeting" by Leotha Stanley. Each piece gave the old carols a lively and soulful twist, fully embodying the joy of the season.

The gospel choir's performances added a spiritual dimension to the concert, leaving the audience with a feeling of warmth and happiness.

The combination of the different choirs and the various musical styles made for a truly unforgettable finale.

Final Sing-Along

For the concert's final number, musicians and audience-members alike donned festive hats and joined in a Christmas carol sing-along. As the combined ensembles crowded together on stage, DeMain brought the audience into the fold, creating a moment of unity and joy.

In that glorious finale, Overture Hall sang with a rarer kind of harmony, as the music filled the air and the spirit of the holiday season was felt by all.

This final sing-along was a fitting end to an evening filled with musical excellence and holiday spirit.