Join Steve Seel for an Easter celebration with the complete performance of George Frideric Handel's sacred oratorio Messiah, with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. Led by conductor Dinis Sousa, an all-star roster of vocal soloists and the renowned vocal ensemble the Singers, led by Matthew Culloton, the concert was recorded live in December at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. Listen to the concert now!

Credits

Dinis Sousa, conductor

Liv Redpath, soprano

Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen, countertenor

Hugo Hymas, tenor

Ashley Riches, bass-baritone

The Singers — Minnesota Choral Artists, chorus

Matthew Culloton, artistic director

Find out more about the performance through the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra’s digital program book.

The Lunar New Year is known as Chun Jie (Spring Festival) in China, Tet Nguyen Dan in Vietnam and Seollal in Korea. It’s also celebrated in other countries and cultures, mainly in East Asia.

The Lunar New Year begins on the first new moon of the new year, which means the dates of the holiday vary in relation to the Gregorian calendar. It calls for celebration and togetherness and signifies the beginning of a new sign in the zodiac. Host Mindy Ratner explores the significance of the holiday and the zodiac signs in Spring Moon – A Musical Celebration of the Lunar New Year in celebration of the Year of the Horse, which begins Feb. 17.

To encourage good luck in the new year, new clothes are worn (mainly in red, which is the color of happiness and prosperity), and money is given in red envelopes to help transfer good fortune from older generations to the younger ones. In the street, you can see dragon dances that are meant to scare away monsters and bad luck, and at night you can see fireworks lighting up the sky.

If you want to greet someone during the Lunar New Year, there are a few different ways to do so:

LISTEN — Lunar New Year Greetings (spoken by Eric Romani)

Playlist

• Traditional (China) — Small River Flowing - Yolanda Kondonassis, harp

• SUN Yiqiang — Dance of Spring - LANG Lang, piano

• Traditional (Vietnam) — Elope in Spring - Percussion Group “Phu Dong”; Thang Long, reed pipe

• TAN Dun — Silk Road from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon - Yo-Yo MA, cello; Studio Orchestra/TAN Dun, cond

• TAN Dun — To the South from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon - Yo-Yo MA, cello; Studio Orchestra/TAN Dun, cond

• GAO Hong — Flying Dragon - GAO Hong, pipa

• Jian-Zhong WANG, arr. Yi-Wen JIANG — Five Yunnan Folk Songs/Dragon Lantern Tune - Shanghai Quartet

• Hu-Wei HUANG, arr. JIANG — Pictures from Bashu - Six Sichuan Folk Songs/Spring in Chengdu Eugenia Zukerman, flute; Shanghai Quartet 

• TAN Dun— Eight Memories in Watercolor, Op. 1 Blue Nun - LANG Lang, piano

• DENG Yuxian — Spring Wind - LANG Lang, piano

• Traditional (Korea) — Chambu Taryong - CHI Young-hee, p’iri; SUNG Keum-yun, changgo

• Traditional (Korea) arr. KIM Hee-jo — Milyang Arirang - KBS Symphony Orchestra; Vakhtang Jordania, cond

• HUANG Hai Hwai, CHEN Rao Xing and SHEN Li Chun, arr. LANG Lang and LANG Guo-ren — Horses - LANG Lang, piano; LANG Guo-ren, erhu

• CHEN Yi — Romance of Hsiao and Ch’in - Beijing New Music Ensemble members

• Traditional (Korea) — Binari/Greeting to Good Luck - Chung Woong Korean Traditional Music Ensemble

• Traditional (China), arr. Xuefei YANG — A Moonlit Night on the Spring River - Xuefei YANG, guitar

• Traditional (China) — Small River Flowing (reprise) - Yolanda Kondonassis, harp

More information

The Lunar New Year

Chun Jie (Spring Festival) — China

Tet Nguyen Dan — Vietnam

Seollal — Korea

The zodiac calendar

‘The Splendid Table’: Lunar New Year food traditions of China, Vietnam and Korea

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YourClassical MPR’s live broadcast of A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols from King's College, Cambridge, with host Michael Barone, has ended and on-demand audio is no longer available. Join us on Christmas Eve 2026 for another unforgettable service.

You may still download the Order of Service for the 2025 program below.

Since 1918, A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols has offered listeners an opportunity to share in a live, worldwide Christmas Eve broadcast of a service of biblical readings, carols and related seasonal classical music. This special event is presented by the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge, one of the world’s foremost choirs of men and boys, and performed in an acoustically and architecturally renowned venue, the college’s 500-year-old chapel.

This year's national broadcast of A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is made possible by generous support from the Hognander Family Foundation.

Program

Here is the Order of Service for this year’s program, including this PDF booklet.

A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols 2025 - Order of Service

Order of Service

• Processional: “Once in Royal David's City”

• Bidding Prayer (read by the dean)

• “The Blessed Son of God” (Ralph Vaughan Williams)

• First lesson: Genesis 3, vv. 8-15, 17-19 (read by a chorister)

• “Adam Lay Ybounden” (Boris Ord)

• Second lesson: Genesis 22, vv. 15-18 (read by a college student)

• “Nowell Sing We Now All and Some” (Elizabeth Maconchy)

• Third lesson: Isaiah 9, vv. 2, 6-7 (read by a member of college staff)

• “Sussex Carol” (arr. Philip Ledger)

• “Noel” (adapt. Arthur Sullivan/arr. John Scott)

• Fourth lesson: Isaiah 11, vv. 1-4a, 6-9 (read by a representative of Eton College)

• “The Darkling Thrush” (Rachel Portman) - 2025 commission *

• “The Lamb” (John Tavener)

• Fifth lesson: Luke 1, vv. 26-35, 38 (read by a Fellow)

• “Ave Maria” (Bruckner)

• “There Is No Rose of Such Virtue” (arr. John Stevens)

• Sixth lesson: Luke 2, vv. 1-7 (read by the mayor of Cambridge)

• “A Boy Was Born” (Benjamin Britten)

• “Unto Us Is Born a Son” from Piæ Cantiones (Arr. David Willcocks)

• Seventh lesson: Luke 2, vv. 8-16 (read by the director of music)

• “Nativity Carol” (John Rutter)

• “The Shepherds’ Farewell” from L’Enfance du Christ, Op. 25 (Hector Berlioz)

• Eighth lesson: Matthew 2, vv. 1-12 (read by the vice-provost)

• “Dormi Jesu” (John Rutter)

• “I Saw Three Ships” (arr. Stuart Nicholson)

• Ninth lesson: John 1, vv. 1-14 (read by the provost)

• “O Come, All Ye Faithful” (arr. Willcocks/Daniel Hyde)

• Blessing

• “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing” (Felix Mendelssohn, arr. Willcocks)

Organ voluntaries

• In Dulci Jubilo BWV 729 (Johann Sebastian Bach)

• IX. Dieu parmi nous from La Nativité du Seigneur (Olivier Messiaen)

Credits

• Rev. Stephen Cherry, dean

• Daniel Hyde, director of music

• Rev. Jonathan Kimber, chaplain

• Emily Lyons, chapel manager

• Harrison Cole, assisting organist

* A new work has been commissioned for the Christmas Eve service every year since 1983, and this year Rachel Portman has set a poem by Thomas Hardy, an English novelist and poet who attended King’s College London in the 1860s — “The Darkling Thrush.” The composer says: “I was particularly drawn to [the poem’s] deep rural setting, beginning as it does in the cold winter landscape, and the uplifting song of the little bird that bursts out upon the stillness bringing hope. The thrush’s song in the poem is given to a solo chorister, and the choir responds in growing warmth and melody. The poignancy of a frail thrush’s song as the bringer of hope into the world is, I feel, a good message for our time.”

Programming is also supported by Alight and CF Design.

We have a variety of Christmas and other classical specials for the holiday season, from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. Listen to them any time that’s convenient using this comprehensive listing.

Holiday specials are posted throughout the season, so bookmark this page and keep checking back to see if your favorite is listed. Looking for the holiday programming schedule or for more information about these programs? Click below.

Thanksgiving

LISTEN — ‘Every Good Thing’ (2024)

LISTEN — ‘Song of Thanks’ with Cantus (2025)

Christmas

LISTEN — ‘Welcome Christmas’ (2025)

LISTEN — ‘Carols, Customs and Candlelight’: A Celtic Christmas Celebration (2024)

LISTEN — Christmas at Luther: ‘Seeking Refuge for a Weary World’ (2025)

LISTEN — ‘All is Bright’ (2023)

LISTEN — ‘A Chanticleer Christmas’ (2025)

LISTEN — ‘Carols as Home’ with the Imani Winds (2023)

LISTEN — St. Olaf Christmas Festival 2025: ‘O Morning Star, O Radiant Love’

LISTEN — Christmas With Cantus (2024)

LISTEN — Christmas With the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square (2021)

LISTEN — ‘Echoes of Christmas’: A Dale Warland Special (2021)

LISTEN — Hollywood Holiday (2022)

LISTEN — Sound of Cinnamon (2025)

LISTEN — ‘In Winter’s Glow’: A Solstice Special (2025)

LISTEN — A Soulful Christmas (2022)

LISTEN — St. Olaf Christmas Festival 2024: ‘Our Hope for Years To Come’

LISTEN — YourClassical Christmas Favorites (2025)

Hanukkah

LISTEN — Candles Burning Brightly (2024)

Kwanzaa

LISTEN — ‘We Stand on Top of the Mountain’: A Kwanzaa Celebration (2021)

Programming is supported by Alight, CF Design, Ebenezer and the Guthrie Theater.

Jack Frost is nipping at our ears, and that means it's time for YourClassical's Christmas Favorites. Six YourClassical hosts — Jake Armerding, John Birge, Tom Crann, Vernon Neal, Melissa Ousley and Lynne Warfel — each chose five of their favorite carols, and you voted on your favorites from those lists.

Now that your votes have been cast, we tallied the results and assembled this list of the top 10 Christmas Favorites — as chosen by you. Here are the results — and the music.

2025 YourClassical Christmas Favorites

No. 10:
Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy | Pyotr Tchaikovsky (arr. D. Arkenstone) | David Arkenstone 

Bonus favorite:
The Christmas Song | Robert Wells and Mel Tormé | The Hampton String Quartet

No. 9:
O Come All Ye Faithful | John Francis Wade | Philadelphia Orchestra; Eugene Ormandy, cond.

No. 8:
What Sweeter Music | John Rutter | Cambridge Singers

No. 7:
Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming | Traditional (arr. R. Brooks and K. Turner) | American Horn Quartet

No. 6:
Hark the Herald Angels Sing | Felix Mendelssohn (arr. S. Cleobury) | Choir of King’s College, Cambridge

No. 5:
Wexford Carol | Traditional | Bryn Terfel, baritone 

Bonus favorite:
Winter Wonderland | Felix Bernard (arr. W. Marsalis) | Wynton Marsalis, trumpet

No. 4:
In the Bleak Midwinter | Gustav Holst | Shawn Colvin 

No. 2 (tie):
Silent Night | Franz Gruber (arr. M. Sargent) | Dale Warland Singers 

No. 2 (tie):
Linus and Lucy | Vince Guaraldi Trio | Vince Guaraldi 

No: 1:
The Holly and the Ivy | Traditional (arr. P. Ostroushko)| Peter Ostroushko 

Listen to this year’s selections:

• YourClassical Christmas Favorites 2025: Jake Armerding's picks

• YourClassical Christmas Favorites 2025: John Birge's picks

• YourClassical Christmas Favorites 2025: Tom Crann's picks

• YourClassical Christmas Favorites 2025: Vernon Neal's picks

• YourClassical Christmas Favorites 2025: Melissa Ousley's picks

• YourClassical Christmas Favorites 2025: Lynne Warfel's picks

Programming is supported by Alight.

In Winter's Glow is a winter solstice program, hosted by Steve Seel. It presents modern classical sounds for the longest night of the year, chosen especially to complement the chilly, starry nights of the season.

Playlist

John Luther Adams: In a Treeless Place, Only Snow (excerpt)

Peter Gregson: “Cantus” from Quartets

Traditional: “Personent hodie”

Traditional: “Lo, How a Rose E’re Blooming”

John Luther Adams: Sky with Endless Stars

Mary Lattimore: Pine Trees

Eriks Esenvalds: “Evening”

Johann Johannsson: “Two is Apocryphal” from Drone Mass

Traditional: Ae Romeser

Jane Antonia Cornish: Sunglitter

Hildegard von Bingen: Ave Maria Auctrix Vitae

Jacob Pavek: Moss (excerpt)

Programming is supported by Alight.

The St. Olaf Christmas Festival has become one of the nation's most cherished holiday celebrations. This year's presentation, “O Morning Star, O Radiant Love,” features more than 500 student musicians in three performances at the Northfield college. Listen to the concert now!

Started in 1912 by F. Melius Christiansen, founder of the St. Olaf College Music Department, the festival includes hymns, carols, choral works and orchestral selections celebrating the Nativity. It will feature the St. Olaf Choir, the St. Olaf Orchestra, the St. Olaf Cantorei, the St. Olaf Chapel Choir, the Manitou Singers and the Viking Chorus, performing as individual groups and as a massed ensemble.

Playlist and program

Follow along with the official program booklet for this year's presentation, “O Morning Star, O Radiant Love” — as well as detailed information about the music as part of St. Olaf’s student-led Program Notes Project.

2025 St. Olaf Christmas Festival - Official Program

2025 St. Olaf Christmas Festival - Student-led Program Notes Project

Program

St. Olaf Choir — Anton Armstrong, conductor
St. Olaf Orchestra — Chung Park, conductor
St. Olaf Cantorei — James E. Bobb, conductor
Manitou Singers — Therees Tkach Hibbard, conductor
St. Olaf Chapel Choir — Joseph Kemper, conductor
Viking Chorus — Joseph Kemper, conductor

STEVE DANYEW In the Still Early Light
MICHAEL PRAETORIUS (ED. JAMES E. BOBB) O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright
NARRATION BY MATTHEW MAROHL
FRENCH PROCESSIONAL (ARR. JOHN FERGUSON) O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
FELIX MENDELSSOHN There Shall a Star (Christus)
OLAF C. CHRISTIANSEN Light Everlasting
JOSEPH KEMPER North Star
CARY RATCLIFF Let Every Heart
SIR C. HUBERT H. PARRY (SETTING BY JOHN FERGUSON) He Comes to Us as One Unknown
GOSPEL READING BY MATTHEW MAROHL AND KATHERINE FICK
HENRY T. SMART (ARR. CHARLES FORSBERG) Angels, from the Realms of Glory
PIAE CANTIONES (ARR. MICHAEL ENGELHARDT) Gaudete! (Rejoice!)
JUAN GARCIA DE ZÉSPEDES (ARR. EUGENE ROGERS) Convidando Está la Noche (The Night Is an Invitation)
HERBERT HOWELLS A Spotless Rose
ARIEL RAMIREZ (ARR. PADRE JESUS GABRIEL SEGADE) Gloria (Misa Criolla)
ELAINE HAGENBERG Splendor (Illuminare)
STEVEN AMUNDSON Glories Ring
ORIENTIS PARTIBUS, 12TH-CENTURY FRENCH MELODY (ARR. ROBERT V. SCHOLZ) The Friendly Beasts
RICHARD S. WILLIS (ARR. CHARLES FORSBERG) It Came upon the Midnight Clear
PHILIPP NICOLAI (ARR. F. MELIUS CHRISTIANSEN) Wake, Awake, for Night Is Flying
NARRATION BY KATHERINE FICK
ARTHUR HONEGGER And God Said: One Day Shall Dawn (King David)
FELIX MENDELSSOHN BARTHOLDY (ARR. JOHN FERGUSON) Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
NARRATION BY MATTHEW MAROHL
CHRISTOPHER ASPAAS Song of Simeon
SILESIAN FOLK TUNE (ARR. F. MELIUS CHRISTIANSEN) Beautiful Savior

Sponsors

Radio broadcasts of the St. Olaf Christmas Festival are made possible as a gift to the community by Tad and Cindy Piper.

And by

Alight

Video is produced through the generosity and support of St. Olaf's sponsors:

David and Cynthia Hill

The Mark and Laura Johnson Family

The Tomson Family Foundation

Greg and Lisa Nave Buck

Paul and Margot Grangaard

Tim and Jan Maudlin with gratitude for the Lutheran Center for Faith, Values and Community

The Jon and Jennifer Salveson family

Enjoy seasonal favorites and a variety of Christmas and Hanukkah programs. Here is a day-by-day guide to all of our special holiday programming for the 2025 season, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve.

Seasonal specials are presented on YourClassical MPR's stations and stream.

Programs — on-air and online

Listen to these programs on YourClassical MPR stations and online at the following times. Linked titles go to more information and on-demand audio (when available) to listen to the program at any time.

This listing will be updated regularly throughout the season with links and audio as they become available, so check back often.

All times are central.

Nov. 26, 6 p.m. — Every Good Thing: Giving thanks and celebrating the gift of music. Hosted by Andrea Blain.

Nov. 26, 7 p.m. — Songs of Thanks: The acclaimed octet Cantus weaves together stories and songs celebrating gratitude and community.

Nov. 27, 10 a.m. — Songs of Thanks (encore; see Nov. 26).

Nov. 27, 11 a.m. — Every Good Thing (encore; see Nov. 26).

Dec. 2, 7 p.m. — Christmas at Luther: Seeking Refuge for a Weary World: Each December, the Center for Faith and Life at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, rings out with the sacred and the exuberant sounds of the Christmas season. Enjoy this 2024 program.

Dec. 4, 7 p.m. — Sound of Cinnamon: Experience coziness and contentment with a hygge soundtrack perfect for finding your favorite pair of slippers and putting your feet up. Hosted by Jake Armerding.

Dec. 7, 3 p.m. — St. Olaf Christmas Festival: O Morning Star, O Radiant Love (live): For many people, over several generations, the celebration of the Advent – Christmas – Epiphany season begins with the annual St. Olaf Christmas Festival, a century-old tradition of the college. Hosted by Steve Staruch.

Dec. 9, 7 p.m. — Welcome Christmas: Enjoy traditional carols and new discoveries in this Christmas favorite from VocalEssence, one of the world's premier choral ensembles, conducted by Philip Brunelle and G. Phillip Shoultz. Hosted by Bonnie North.

Dec. 11, 7 p.m. — A Chanticleer Christmas: Holiday favorites presented live by the superb 12-man ensemble known as "an orchestra of voices," with a centuries-spanning program ranging from Renaissance masterworks to roof-raising spirituals. (Encore from 2023.) Hosted by Melissa Ousley.

Dec. 13, 7 p.m. — St. Olaf Christmas Festival: Our Hope for Years To Come: For one and a half centuries, St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, has been a hub of connections, knowledge and growth. Listen to a concert featuring scripture, hymns, and musical performances by the St. Olaf Orchestra, St. Olaf Choir, St. Olaf Cantorei, St. Olaf Chapel Choir, Viking Chorus, and Manitou Singers. Enjoy this 2024 program. Hosted by Valerie Kahler.

Dec. 15, 7 p.m. — Candles Burning Brightly: A delightful hour for everyone to celebrate the Jewish Festival of Lights, which runs Dec. 14 to 22. Enjoy music from Jewish communities around the world, plus a hilarious lesson on how to prepare a classic Chanukah dish, and a timeless and touching holiday story that brings light into every home. Hosted by Mindy Ratner.

Dec. 16, 7 p.m. — A Chanticleer Christmas (encore; see Dec. 11).

Dec. 17, 7 p.m. — Carols, Customs and Candlelight: A Celtic Christmas Celebration: Many Christmas songs and carols come from places like Ireland, Scotland, Brittany and other Celtic nations. Explore music and customs that have roots in ancient winter celebrations and traditional Christmas festivals. (Encore from 2024.) Hosted by Andrea Blain.

Dec. 18, 7 p.m. — YourClassical Christmas Favorites: Listen to the top Christmas songs, as ranked by listeners. Hosted by Tom Crann and Jake Armerding.

Dec. 19, 7 p.m. — Welcome Christmas (encore; see Dec. 9).

Dec. 20, 7 p.m. — Candles Burning Brightly (encore; see Dec. 15).

Dec. 21, 2 p.m. — St. Paul Chamber Orchestra Performs Messiah (live): The SPCO will be joined by an all-star roster of vocal soloists and renowned vocal ensemble the Singers in what is sure to be a wonderful performance of Handel’s master work. This year featuring conductor Dinis Sousa. Hosted by Steve Seel. On-demand audio will not be available for this program.

Dec. 21, 7 p.m. — In Winter’s Glow A winter solstice program, with modern classical sounds for the longest night of the year, chosen especially to complement the chilly, starry nights of the season. Hosted by Steve Seel.

Dec. 22, 7 p.m. — St. Olaf Christmas Festival: Our Hope for Years To Come (encore; see Dec. 13).

Dec. 23, 7 p.m. — YourClassical Christmas Favorites (encore; see Dec. 18).

Dec. 24, 9 a.m. — A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols: A time-honored service of biblical readings, carols and seasonal classical music, from King's College, Cambridge, England. The live broadcast is followed by an encore on Christmas Eve, with on-demand audio available here for 30 days afterward. Hosted by Michael Barone.

Dec. 24, 7 p.m. — A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols (encore).

Dec. 26, 7 p.m. — In Winter’s Glow (encore; see Dec. 21).

Dec. 27, 7 p.m. — Sound of Cinnamon (encore; see Dec. 4).

Jan. 1, noon — Vienna New Year’s Day Special: Usher in the new year with conductor Riccardo Muti and the world-famous Vienna Philharmonic. On-demand audio will not be available for this program.

Jan. 1, 2 p.m. — New Year’s Celebration with the Minnesota Orchestra (live): We’ll ring in 2026 with a pianist who’s well-admired in both jazz and classical circles. For this all-American program, Aaron Diehl plays a concerto that was written just for him. Hosted by Melissa Ousley.

Programs — online

Enjoy encore presentations of these popular holiday specials from the past now, with on-demand audio.

Every Good Thing: Giving thanks and celebrating the gift of music. Hosted by Andrea Blain.

Giving Thanks: A 25th-anniversary, contemporary celebration of spirit of gratitude. Hosted by John Birge.

All Is Bright: An hourlong program of contemplative choral and solo vocal music of the season. Hosted by Lynne Warfel.

Christmas With Cantus: The vocal ensemble Cantus weaves together three holiday stories with time-honored carols and new classics. Hosted by Melissa Ousley.

Anticipation and Celebration: Advent With the Montserrat Boy Choir: One of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious boys’ choirs is captured live in its Midwest premiere at the majestic Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis. Hosted by Steve Staruch.

Christmas with the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square: A celebration featuring a 360-voice choir, a 150-piece orchestra and a 32-member bell choir.

Echoes of Christmas – A Dale Warland Special: A holiday program featuring the legendary choir leader. Hosted by Steve Staruch.

Hollywood Holiday: A musical retrospective of our most-cherished Christmas-themed movies.

Hygge Holiday: A mix of wintry and nostalgic classical pieces designed to accompany listeners as they enjoy cozy wintertime activities. Hosted by Elena See.

A Soulful Christmas: An uplifting holiday special that features Black music and composers.

Carols as Home: A holiday special featuring the Grammy-nominated quintet Imani Winds. Hosted by members of Imani Winds.

We Stand on Top of the Mountain: A Kwanzaa Celebration: A musical tribute to the Dec. 26-Jan. 1 holiday in which we celebrate African-American culture. Hosted by Jeffrey Yelverton.

Programming is supported by Alight, CF Design, Ebenezer and the Guthrie Theater.

The Celtic lands of Northwestern Europe have an especially rich musical heritage, and many Christmas songs and carols come from places like Ireland, Scotland, Brittany and other Celtic nations. Listen as host Andrea Blain explores music and customs that have roots in ancient winter celebrations and traditional Christmas festivals. The music features classical ensembles and soloists like Apollo’s Fire and Bryn Terfel, as well as traditional instruments like harp, fiddle and mandolin. Listen now!

Playlist

• Traditional: A Merry Christmas — Quadriga Consort

• Traditional Arr. Chris Hazell: Tua Bethlehem dre — Bryn Terfel, bass-baritone; Gwawr Edwards, soprano; Only Men Aloud; Welsh National Opera Orchestra; Tecwyn Evans, conductor

• Traditional: A Breton Carol — Nolwenn Monjarret, voice; The Chieftans

• Traditional: Noel Nouvelet — Apollo’s Fire; Jeannette Sorrell, conductor

• Traditional: The Wexford Carol — Choir of Clare College, Cambridge; John Rutter, conductor

• Traditional: The Seven Rejoices of Mary — Anonymous 4; Andrew Lawrence-King, harp

• Traditional: Duan Nollaig — Apollo’s Fire; Jeannette Sorrell, conductor

• Traditional: Manx Jezebel Carol — Aine Minogue, harp and voice

• Traditional: Can Wassail — Anonymous 4; Andrew Lawrence-King, harp

• Traditional: Sans Day Carol — St. Charles Singers; Jeffrey Hunt, conductor

• Traditional: Suo Gan — Cantus

• Traditional: My Dancing Day — Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band

• Traditional: Huron Carol — Chanticleer

• Traditional Arr. Linda Kachelmeier: We Toast the Days — The Choral Scholars of University College, Dublin; Desmond Early, conductor

• Traditional: Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring — Eileen Ivers, violin

• Traditional Arr. Peter Breiner: Deck the Halls — Nicolaus Esterhazy Orchestra; Peter Brainer, conductor

Programming is supported by CF Design.

Each December, the Center for Faith and Life at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, rings out with the sacred and the exuberant: the sounds of the Christmas season. Enjoy the 2024 program, Seeking Refuge for a Weary World.

Playlist

• Elaine Hagenberg: O Come, Emmanuel (Orchestration by Jeremy Bankson)

• George Frideric Handel: “Soprano Recitatives” and “Glory to God” from Messiah

• Traditional arr. Andrea Ramsey: “Come and I Will Sing You”

• Traditional arr. Bernat Vivancos: “Les Anges Dans nos Campagnes”

• Christoph Ernst Friedrich Weyse arr. F. Melius Christiansen: “O Day Full of Grace”

• René Clausen: “All That Hath Life and Breath Praise Ye the Lord!”

• Traditional arr. Ruth Elaine Schram: “I Wonder as I Wander”

• Spiritual arr. Josephine Poelinitz: “City Called Heaven”

• Traditional arr. Luther College Jazz Combo: O Come, All Ye Faithful

• Come and Go to That Land arr. Brandon Waddles: Come and Go to That Land

• James Deignan: “Refugee” (Text by Malcolm Guite)

• Traditional arr. Dan Forrest: O Little Town of Bethlehem

• Marques Garrett, Samuel Carlton, Dan Forrest: Ring Out, Ye Bells! (Orchestration by Peppie Calvar)

Programming is supported by Ebenezer and the Guthrie Theater.

During Kwanzaa, which runs Dec. 26-Jan. 1, we celebrate African-American culture with composers that have imbued the essence of the Seven Principles in their timeless and joyous music hosted by Jeffrey Yelverton.

Program

Fela Sowande — Music from African Suite for String Orchestra: II. Nostalgia and V. Akinla 

Billy Childs — Two Elements: I. Water performed by The American Brass Quintet

Leonard Brown — “Smile” performed by The Aeolians

Jeffrey Mumford — eight aspects of appreciation performed by The Mann Duo: Nicholas Mann, violin; Robert Mann, viola

Hamza El Din — Escalay: “Waterwheel” performed by Kronos Quartet

Black Violin — Vivaldi: Spring

Jessie Montgomery — Voodoo Dolls

George Walker — Music for Brass, Sacred and Profane: Invokation performed by American Brass Quintet

A new, delightful hour for everyone to celebrate the Jewish Festival of Lights! Hosted by Mindy Ratner, Candles Burning Brightly features lots of music from Jewish communities worldwide, a hilarious lesson on preparing a classic Hanukkah dish, and a timeless and touching holiday story that brings light into every home.

Playlist

• Judith Clurman and David Chase: Chanukah Joy and Peace (Hebrew/English) — Essential Voices USA; Judith Clurman, conductor; Alan Kay, clarinet; Eliana Razzino Yang, cello; Jack Coen, piano

• Solomon Golub, arr. Zalmen Mlotek: Borukh Ate zingt der Tate (Yiddish) — Essential Voices USA; Judith Clurman, conductor

• Traditional, arr. Ger van Leeuwen: Hadlokas Haneir (Blessings for Kindling the Light) (Hebrew) — Cantor Hans Bloemendal; Choir of Netherlands Jewish Main Synagogue Amsterdam; Ger van Leeuwen, conductor

• Theodore Bikel reads The Lost Menorah by Howard Schwartz from Adam’s Soul: The Collected Tales of Howard Schwartz (published 1992 by Jason Aronson; now out of print); used with the kind permission of the author

• Traditional, arr. Zavel Zilberts: Haneros Haluli — The Knights; Eric Jacobsen, conductor

• Traditional: Haneyros Halalu — Lissa Schneckenburger, violin; Hankus Netsky, piano

• Robert Applebaum: Haneirot Halalu (Hebrew/English) — Chicago a cappella; John William Trotter, conductor

• Jay Ungar: Lights of Chanukah (English) — The Jay Ungar & Molly Mason Family Band; University of Mary Washington Philharmonic Orchestra; Kevin P. Bartram, conductor

• Flory Jagoda, arr. Steve Barnett: Ocho Candelikas (Ladino) — Chanticleer and Chanticleer Holiday Orchestra; Joseph Jennings, conductor

Break

• Traditional: Kitaltas (Ladino) — Theodore Bikel; Elizabeth Parvin; George Kirby; members of the New England Conservatory Jewish Music Ensemble; Hankus Netsky, conductor

• Chasia Segal: Latke Cooking Demonstration

• Flory Jagoda: Hanuka (Ladino) — Voice of the Turtle

• Traditional, arr. Ger van Leeuwen: Moôs Tzur (Hebrew) — Cantor Hans Bloemendal; Choir and Instrumental Ensemble of Netherlands Jewish Main Synagogue Amsterdam; Ger van Leeuwen, conductor

• Traditional (Italian): Maoz Tzur (Hebrew) — Zamir Chorale of Boston; Joshua Jacobson, conductor

• Traditional, arr. Benedetto Marcello: Maoz Tzur (Hebrew) — Zamir Chorale of Boston; Joshua Jacobson, conductor

• Hugo C Adler: Maoz Tzur (Hebrew) — Zamir Chorale of Boston; Joshua Jacobson, cond

• Traditional, arr. Steve Barnett: S’vivon (Hebrew) — New England Conservatory Chorus; Tamara Brooks, conductor

• Abe Ellstein and Moishe Oysher, arr. Abe Ellstein, Joshua Jacobson and Hankus Netsky: Drey Dreydele (Yiddish) — Cantor Morton Shames; New England Conservatory Chorus; New England Conservatory Jewish Music Ensemble

• Traditional, arr. Zavel Zilberts: Haneros Haluli — The Knights; Eric Jacobsen, conductor

Menorahs/Chanukiot (Hebrew)

The candelabrum is a central object in the observance of Chanukah because the holiday is all about light! But what this item is called can be the source of friendly debate. It's common in the United States to refer to the candelabrum used at Chanukah as a menorah. Technically, it is... but a menorah can have any number of branches, while the menorah used at Chanukah – called a chanukia (plural: chanukiot) – has branches for eight candles, plus one for the shamash, the "helper” that is used to light the rest of the candles. The candles should never be extinguished, but should be allowed to burn down by themselves.

Mindy writes about a special menorah

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Dreidels

The dreidel is a four-sided spinning top used for a little low-level gambling game played at Hanukkah.

The sides of the dreidel show the Hebrew letters נ (nun), ℷ (gimel), ה (hei) and ש (shin), which stand for the words "nes gadol haya sham" — meaning, "A great miracle happened there."

So what's at stake? Pennies, or nuts-in-the-shell, or small pieces of chocolate.

Learn how to play.

See more on dreidels in the photos below.

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More music for Hanukkah

Enjoy these additional features and stories to enhance your experience of Candles Burning Brightly®.

1. 8 songs for 8 nights: Music for Hanukkah

2. Harpist Sunita Staneslow plays 'Ocho Candelikas'

3. Itzhak Perlman's Chanukah Radio Party

Programming is supported by Alight.

The St. Olaf Christmas Festival has become one of the nation's most cherished holiday celebrations. This 2024 program, Our Hope for Years to Come, features more than 500 student musicians in a live performance. Listen now to the two-hour special drawn from this event, recorded live at Skoglund Auditorium on the campus of St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. Valerie Kahler is your host.

Started in 1912 by F. Melius Christiansen, founder of the St. Olaf College Music Department, the festival includes hymns, carols, choral works and orchestral selections celebrating the Nativity. It will feature the St. Olaf Choir, the St. Olaf Orchestra, the St. Olaf Cantorei, the St. Olaf Chapel Choir, the Manitou Singers and the Viking Chorus, performing as individual groups and as a massed ensemble.

Playlist

Here is the playlist for this two-hour special:

• Thomas Sleeper: Children's Suite No. 2: Lullaby for Chelsea Rose

• arr. Carolyn Jennings: Climb to the Top of the Mountain

• William Henry Monks, arr. Timothy Mahr: Hark! A Thrilling Voice is Sounding

• George Frideric Handel: Lift Up Your Heads (Messiah)

• Olaf C. Christiansen: Sing Nowell, Sing Gloria

• arr. Ørjan Matre: Eit barn er født i Betlehem (A Child is Born in Bethlehem)

• arr. Dan Forrest and Kirk Moss: The First Noel

• Robert Schultz: Angels We Have Heard on High

• arr. Cary Ratcliff: Sing We Now of Christmas (Noël Nouvelet) from Three Folk Carols

• Roxanna Panufnik: Sleep, Little Jesus, Sleep

• arr. Lewis Redner: O Little Town of Bethlehem

• arr. Carolyn Jennings: Ding Dong! Merrily on High

• John Rutter: Gloria: Movement

• Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, arr. Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn: Overture

• Abby Burt Betinis: Three Generations of Burt Family Carols

• Peder Knudsen: Jeg er sa glad (I Am So Glad)

• C.E.F. Weyse: O Day Full of Grace

• Steven Amundson: The Winds of Hope

• William Croft: O God, Our Help in Ages Past

• arr. John Rutter: O Holy Night

• arr. F. Melius Christiansen: Beautiful Savior

• Kim André Arnesen: His Light in Us

• Kim André Arnesen: I Will Light Candles This Christmas

Sponsors

Radio broadcasts of the St. Olaf Christmas Festival are made possible as a gift to the community by Tad and Cindy Piper.

And by

Alight

Video is produced through the generosity and support of St. Olaf's sponsors:

Paul and Margot Grangaard

David and Cynthia Hill

The Mark and Laura Johnson Family

Tim and Jan Maudlin with gratitude for the Lutheran Center for Faith, Values and Community

The Tomson Family Foundation

St. Olaf Christmas Festival is produced and distributed by American Public Media.

Welcome Christmas is a perennial Christmas favorite from VocalEssence, one of the world's premier choral ensembles, conducted by Philip Brunelle and G. Phillip Shoultz. Join host Bonnie North for an hour of traditional carols and new discoveries.

Playlist

• Carlyle Sharpe: Flourishes

• Giacomo Puccini: La Vigile Di Natalie (Christmas Eve) from La Bohème

• Brian Holmes: Strike Up Your Instruments of Joy

• Stephen Paulus: A Savior From On High

• Michael Praetorios (arr. Mårten Jansson): Es Ist Ein Ros Entsprungen (Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming)

• Traditional (arr. Gerald Gurss): Joy to the World (World premiere commission)

• Joel Thompson: The Rose

• Otto Olson: Guds Son Är Född (God’s Son Is Born)

• Traditional (arr. John Rutter): O Come, All Ye Faithful

• Traditional Sesotho Songs (arr. Michael Barrett): Tshela Moya — Ke Nna Moya

• Negro Spiritual (arr. Kevin Philip Johnson): Children, Go Where I Send Thee

• Traditional (arr. Norman Luboff): Still, Still, Still

• Ēriks Ešenvalds: Yuletide Has Arrived from Three Latvian Yuletide Folksongs

• Jocelyn Hagen: Mother’s Song

• J. David Moore: Jingle Bells

• Traditional (arr. Nils Lindberg): We Wish You A Merry Christmas (audience sing)

Programming is supported by Alight.

Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble Chanticleer is known as the “orchestra of voices” for its unparalleled range and abilities. This holiday season, the group brings its brand-new Christmas program, including original arrangements of well-known tunes drawn from Classical, Jazz, and Popular traditions. Chanticleer fluently weaves among diverse musical styles to create an evening of wonder and joy.

Playlist

• arr. William Walton: Make We Joy Now in This Fest

• arr. Sarah Quartel: Before that, This Endris Night

• Traditional Welsh, arr. Lance Wiliford: Suo Gân

• arr. Steven Sametz: Nowell Sing We; Old Noel Canon

• arr. Franz Biebl: Ave Maria

• Traditional English, arr. Gladys Pitcher: Wassail Song

• Traditional English, arr. Dale Grotenhuis: Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day

• Lowell Mason, arr. Adam Brett Ward: Joy to the World

• Traditional Appalachian, arr. Tim Keeler: And the Trees Do Moan

• Traditional Spiritual, arr. Joseph H. Jennings: (Everywhere I go) Somebody talkin‘ ’bout Jesus

• Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina: O Magnum Mysterium

• arr. Amanda Taylor: O Come, All Ye Faithful

• Franz Gruber, arr. Jared Gravele: Silent Night

Sponsors

A Chanticleer Christmas is made possible by support from:

CF Design Ltd

Ebeneezer Senior Living & Management Services

Alight

Guthrie Theater

A Chanticleer Christmas is produced and distributed by American Public Media.

What does hygge mean to you? Maybe it means friendship, laughter, or more concrete things like warmth, light, seasonal food and drink. It might make you think of sitting by the fire on a cold winter night, wearing your favorite oversized sweater, reading a book, and sipping cinnamon tea. In the special, The Sound of Cinnamon, Jake Armerding invites you to experience coziness and contentment with a hygge soundtrack perfect for finding your favorite pair of slippers and putting your feet up.

Playlist

Jake Armerding: a là môde – Jake Armerding, octave violin

Antonio Bazzini: The Dance of the Goblins - Itzhak Perlman, violin

Jules Massenet: Thaïs: Méditation - Itzhak Perlman, violin; Abbey Road Ensemble; Lawrence Foster, conductor

Hanneke Cassel/Matt Mangano: Pieces of Us/Marc et Laura – Hanneke Cassel, violin

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Mov. II from Flute and Harp Concerto – James Galway, flute; Academy of St. Martin in the Fields; Neville Marriner, conductor

Jake Armerding: Four Roses Quartet: V. Stella's Rose – Rosin

Emilio Pujol: Triquilandia/Seguidilla – David Russell, guitar

Ola Gjeilo: Winter Light – Jess Gillam, soprano saxophone

Traditional: Sekstur from Vensyssel/The Peat Dance – The Danish String Quartet

Edgar Meyer/Mark O’Connor: One Winter’s Night – Strength in Numbers

Ola Gjeilo: Sacred Heart (Ubi Caritas III) – Ben Hancox, violin; Voces8

Programming is supported by Alight.

Join us for Songs of Thanks, an innovative new production by the Minnesota-based vocal ensemble Cantus, presented exclusively by YourClassical MPR. Through their signature narrative programming, these acclaimed performers will weave together stories and songs celebrating gratitude and community. Listen now — and then tell us why you’re thankful (using the form below) so we can include your feedback in next year’s program!

What are you thankful for?

Playlist

• Simple Gifts by Joseph Bracket, arranged by Stephen Caracciolo 

• Little Potato by Malcolm Dalglish

• 23rd Psalm (dedicated to my mother) by Bobby McFerrin 

• Fields of Wonder by Margaret Bonds

• Not Heat Flames Up and Consumes by Steven Sametz 

• A Song of Thanks by Damien Sneed

• Fiddle Tune by Chris Foss

• A Ma Lei A Ho by Chen Yi

• Leron, Leron Sinta by Saunder Choi

• El Manisero by Yosvany Estepe

• Mi Tierra by Gloria Estefan, arranged by Yosvany Estepe

• Finlandia Hymn by Jean Sibelius 

Do you have a special Thanksgiving memory that you hold near and dear to your heart? Let us know below how you give thanks! You might be included in next year’s program.

Related Videos

Earlier this year, Cantus joined us at YourClassical’s headquarters in St. Paul, Minn., to record two of the pieces featured on this radio special. Enjoy the group’s performances of ‘Finlandia’ by Jean Sibelius and ‘Fiddle Tune’ by Chris Foss.

On Thanksgiving, host Andrea Blain and classical music fans from all around the country take time to give thanks and celebrate one of life's most meaningful gifts: music. It's Every Good Thing — an hour of stories and music to celebrate Thanksgiving.

Playlist

Karl Jenkins: The Armed Man: Benedictus – Daniel Hope, violin; German Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Simon Halsey.

Johann Sebastian Bach: The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude and fugue No. 1 in C major, BWV 846 – Gustav Leonhardt, harpsichord

Fritz Kreisler: Liebesleid (Love’s Sorrow) – Pinchas Zukerman, violin

Johann Strauss Jr.: By the Beautiful Blue Danube – Vienna Philharmonic; Herbert von Karajan, conductor

Antonio Gomezanda: Lagos: Interior – Alan Marks, piano; Berlin Symphony Orchestra; Jorge Velazco, conductor

Ludwig van Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 15 (Pastoral) – Jonathan Biss, piano

Gustav Mahler: Symphony No. 8 – Minnesota Orchestra; Osmo Vänskä, conductor

Aaron Copland: Simple Gifts – Zuill Bailey, cello

Jay Ungar: Thanksgiving Watlz – Jay Ungar, fiddle; Molly Mason, guitar

Hector Berlioz: Corsair: Overture – Boston Symphony Orchestra; Charles Munch, conductor

Gioachino Rossini, arr. Spike Jones: William Tell Overture – Spike Jones and His City Slickers

Edvard Grieg: Piano Concerto – Leif Ove Andsnes, piano; Berlin Philharmonic; Mariss Jansons, conductor

Ludwig van Beethoven: Symphony No. 5 – New York Philharmonic; Leonard Bernstein, conductor

Modest Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition – Vienna Philharmonic; Gustavo Dudamel, conductor

Karl Jenkins: The Armed Man: Benedictus – Daniel Hope, violin; German Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Simon Halsey.

At this time of year, Jews around the world gather together to celebrate new beginnings. Host Mindy Ratner guides us in a musical observance of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, known in Hebrew as Yamim Noraim, the Days of Awe. Listen now to Music for the Days of Awe: An Observance of the Jewish High Holidays.

Playlist

• Solomon Braslavsky (arr. Bruce Ruben): M’chalkeil Chayim – Kathryn Andersen, violin; Steven Lyon, clarinet; Judith Clurman, conductor

• Paul Schoenfield: Achat Sha’alti – Carol Wincenc, flute; Paul Schoenfield, piano

• Salamone Rossi: Lamnatseach ‘al hagitit mizmor l’David (Psalm 8) – New York Baroque; Eric Milnes, conductor

• Max Janowski (arr. Raymond Goldstein): Avinu Malkeinu – Cantors Azi Schwartz, Shira Lissek and Rachel Brook; Alexander Scheirele, cello; Colin Fowler, piano

• Alessandro Scarlatti: Excerpt from Agar et Ismaele Esiliati – Karina Gauvin (Sara); Nathaniel Watson (Abramo); Seattle Baroque; Byron Schenkman and Ingrid Matthews, conductors

• Igor Stravinsky: Abraham and Isaac (Part 3: “And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked”) – David Wilson-Johnson, bass-baritone; London Sinfonietta; Oliver Knussen, conductor

• Traditional: Four Shofar Sounds – Cantor Hans Bloemendal; BW de Jong, shofar

• Joseph Kurland (arr. Max Janowski): Hineni – Trevor Mitchell, cantor; Chicago a cappella

• Traditional: Excerpt from Avinu Malkeynu – Rachel Van Voorhees, harp

• Sarah Gurowitsch: Kol Nidrej – Dieter Klöcker, clarinet; Vlach Quartet Prague

• Judith Clurman (arr. Ryan Nowlin): Ki Hineih Kachomer – James Cunningham, piano; Daniel Miller, cello; Essential Voices USA; Judith Clurman, conductor

• Louis Lewandowski: Ki K’shimcha – Hazzan Steven C. Berke; Madrigalchor der Hochschule fur Musik, Munchen

• Traditional: El Nora Alilah – Galeet Dardashti and Divahn

• Traditional: T’kiah g’dolah – Collegium Musicum Judaicum Amsterdam; Chaim Storosum, conductor

Food during the High Holidays

“It wouldn't be a Jewish holiday without food! Jewish communities around the world share some food traditions and still offer their own unique recipes and food preparation methods. As in any household, there are cherished family recipes that make the holidays special. In my family, it was a moist and spicy honey cake that my paternal grandmother made." — Mindy Ratner

High Holy Days Recipes

The Most Important Jewish Holidays and their Foods

Rosh Hashanah Recipes From Around the World

Surprising suggestions for dishes to break the Yom Kippur fast

The Righteousness of Pomegranate on Rosh Hashanah

Special thanks

Rabbi Shelley Kovar Becker

Rabbi Tamar Magill-Grimm

Rabbi Sharon Stiefel

Cantorial Soloist David Jordan Harris

Beth Jacob Congregation, Mendota Heights, MN

Heritage Judaica

Sonya Rapport

Dan Nass

Jacob Aloi

Ines Guanchez

The view of one’s life’s work has taken on different meanings in societies and eras across the world. From servant and slavery systems of old, to the industrial revolution, to labor unions and the gig economy, our idea of work is ever-changing.

As in all aspects of our culture, music has been a part of work every step of the way. Today, both the advent of remote-work and the emerging question of universal basic income are creating new paradigms and discussions about the meaning of work. This Labor Day, join Cantus for I Hear America Singing, a joyful examination of the role work has played in our lives in years past and how work might evolve into the future.

Playlist

Traditional: “Simple Gifts”

Marge Piercy: “To Be of Use”

Melissa Dunphy: “Work”

Jennifer Lucy Cook: “Time”

Kenji Miyazawa: “Be Not Defeated by the Rain”

Traditional (arr. Yudelkis LaFuente): “Song to Yemaya”

Traditiona (arr. Osamu Shimizu): “Mogami River Boat Song”

Stacey Gibbs: “Ain't Got Time to Die”

Traditional (arr. Robert de Cormier): “Rainbow Round My Shoulder”

Traditional (arr. Chris Foss): “We Shall Not Be Moved”

Traditional (arr. Jeffrey L. Ames): “Tshotsholoza” (“Go Forward”)

Ralph Carmichael: “A Quiet Place”

Chris Foss: “I Hear America Singing”

Natasha Bedingfield: “Unwritten”

Dolly Parton: “9 to 5”

Join host Melanie Renate for Lunar Reflections, a program that offers a unique blend of classical music and mindfulness, designed to engage listeners in a deeply immersive musical experience. Each lunar phase is paired with evocative classical works, which help guide listeners through moments of introspection, creativity and renewal. With a rich narrative and a thoughtfully curated soundtrack, this program offers a fresh way to connect with music, nature and emotional wellness. Listen now!

Playlist

Ola Gjeilo: New Moon – Ola Gjeilo, piano

Gabríel Ólafs: Fantasia – Steiney Sigurdardottir, cello; Gabriel Olafs, piano

Arvo Pärt (arr. Kasia Kadłubowska): Fratres – Kasia Kadłubowska, percussion; Dominik Bukowski, vibraphone; Steffen Dix, electronics

Max Richter (arr. Geoff Lawson): On the Nature of Daylight – Voces8

Leopold Godowsky: Borobudur in Moonlight – Carl Petersson, piano

Ludovico Einaudi: Full Moon – Milos Karadaglic, guitar

Ren Guang: Silver Clouds Chasing the Moon – Lydia Maria Bader, piano

Galina Grigorjeva: Nature Morte: The Butterfly – Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir; Paul Hillier, conductor

Dobrinka Tabakova: Nocturne (arranged for violin and piano) – Mari Samuelsen, violin; Julien Quentin, piano

Douwe Eisenga: For Mattia – Lauren Scott, harp

Join Steve Seel for an Easter celebration with the complete performance of George Frideric Handel's sacred oratorio Messiah, with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. Led by conductor Patrick Dupré Quigley, an all-star roster of vocal soloists and the renowned vocal ensemble the Singers, led by Matthew Culloton, the concert was recorded live in December at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. Listen now!

Credits

Patrick Dupré Quigley, conductor

Lauren Snouffer, soprano

Clara Osowski, mezzo-soprano

John Matthew Myers, tenor

John Moore, baritone

The Singers — Minnesota Choral Artists, chorus

Matthew Culloton, artistic director

Find out more about the performance through the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra’s digital program book.

Editor’s note: This feature contains information about the 2024 Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols service. For information about the 2025 broadcast, click here.

YourClassical MPR’s live broadcast of 'A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols' from King's College, Cambridge, with host Michael Barone, has ended and on-demand audio is no longer available. Join us on Christmas Eve 2025 for another unforgettable service.

You may still download the Order of Service for the 2024 program below.

Since 1918, A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols has offered listeners an opportunity to share in a live, worldwide Christmas Eve broadcast of a service of biblical readings, carols and related seasonal classical music. This special event is presented by the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge, one of the world’s foremost choirs of men and boys, and performed in an acoustically and architecturally renowned venue, the college’s 500-year-old chapel.

This year's national broadcast of A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is made possible by generous support from the Hognander Family Foundation.

Program

Here is the Order of Service for this year’s program, including this PDF booklet.

PDF: A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols 2024 - Order of Service

Order of Service

• Processional: “Once in Royal David's City”

• Bidding Prayer (read by the dean)

• Sussex Carol (arr. Ralph Vaughan Williams)

• First lesson: Genesis 3, vv. 8-19 (read by a chorister)

• “Adam Lay Ybounden” (Matthew Martin)

• Second lesson: Genesis 22, vv. 15-19 (read by a college student)

• “Nowell, Nowell, Nowell” (Elizabeth Maconchy)

• Third lesson: Isaiah 9, vv. 2, 6-7 (read by a member of college staff)

• “A Great and Mighty Wonder” (arr. James Whitbourn)

• “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear”

• Fourth lesson: Isaiah 11, vv. 1-9 (read by the master over the choristers)

• “The Lamb” (John Tavener)

• “Gabriel’s Message” (arr. David Willcocks)

• Fifth lesson: Luke 1, vv. 26-38 (read by a fellow)

• “Ave Regina Caelorum” (Orlandus Lassus)

• “Nativity Carol” (John Rutter)

• Sixth lesson: Luke 2, vv. 1-7 (read by the mayor of Cambridge)

• “Hereford Carol” (arr. Christopher Robinson)

• “While Shepherds Watched”

• Seventh lesson: Luke 2, vv. 8-20 (read by the director of music)

• “Three Points of Light” (Grayston Ives) - 2024 commission *

• “I Saw Three Ships” (Simon Preston)

• Eighth lesson: Matthew 2, vv. 1-12 (read by the vice-provost)

• “Lullay, Dear Jesus” (arr. Arnold Bax)

• “Benedicamus Domino” (Peter Warlock)

• Ninth lesson: John 1, vv. 1-14 (read by the provost)

• “O Come, All Ye Faithful” (arr. Willcocks/Daniel Hyde)

• Blessing

• “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing” (Felix Mendelssohn, arr. Willcocks)

Organ voluntaries

• In Dulci Jubilo (Johann Sebastian Bach)

• Finale from Symphony No. 6 (Louis Vierne)

Credits

• Rev. Stephen Cherry, dean

• Daniel Hyde, director of music

• Rev. Mary Kells, chaplain

• Harrison Cole, assisting organist

* A new work has been commissioned for the Christmas Eve service every year since 1983, and this year Grayston Ives has set a poem by Peter Cairns, a choral scholar at King's in the 1960s — “Three Points of Light.” The composer says: “The Star in the East is well known as an integral part of the Christmas story. But the poem extends that idea of light: the shepherd's fire and the glow from the inn. It conjures a compelling picture of the birth of Jesus, viewed from an unusual angle. The music aims to reflect the atmosphere of that scene: the cold, the stillness, the drama and the joy.”

What does love mean to you, and how does classical music help you express it? Whether it's for a partner, family or friends — or even, say, a pet or hobby — we want to know what classical work means "love" to you. Tell us below, and we'll play your suggestions for Valentine's Day during our February Member Drive.

What classical work means ‘love’ to you?

Send us your suggestion by completing and submitting the form below.

* Required field

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We have a variety of Christmas and other classical specials for the holiday season, from Thanksgiving to New Year's Day. Listen to them any time that's convenient using this comprehensive listing.

Holiday specials are posted throughout the season, so bookmark this page and keep checking back to see if your favorite is listed. Looking for the holiday programming schedule or for more information about these programs? Click below.

Thanksgiving

LISTEN — Every Good Thing

LISTEN — Song of Thanks with Cantus

LISTEN — Giving Thanks 25th Anniversary

Hanukkah

LISTEN — Candles Burning Brightly

Christmas

LISTEN — A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

LISTEN — All is Bright

LISTEN — Welcome Christmas

LISTEN — Christmas at Luther: Love, the Rose, Is on the Way

LISTEN — St. Olaf Christmas Festival: Celebrating 150 Years of St. Olaf College

LISTEN — Carols, Customs and Candlelight: A Celtic Christmas Celebration

LISTEN — Chanticleer Christmas

LISTEN — Carols as Home with the Imani Winds

LISTEN — Tales of Christmas with Cantus

LISTEN — Anticipation and Celebration: Advent With the Montserrat Boy Choir

LISTEN — Christmas at Luther: Love, the Rose, Is on the Way

LISTEN — Christmas With Cantus

LISTEN — Christmas With the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square

LISTEN — Echoes of Christmas – A Dale Warland Special

LISTEN — Hollywood Holiday

LISTEN — Hygge Holiday

LISTEN — In Winter’s Glow – A Solstice Special

LISTEN — A Soulful Christmas

LISTEN — St. Olaf Christmas Festival 2023

Kwanzaa

LISTEN — We Stand on Top of the Mountain: A Kwanzaa Celebration

You ranked your favorite holiday tunes. Now, they’ve been compiled into YourClassical Christmas Favorites, hosted by Tom Crann and Valerie Kahler. Listen now!

Support for YourClassical Christmas Favorites is provided by Bachman’s Holiday Headquarters and Crooners Supper Club.

Playlist

Traditional: “O Come All Ye Faithful“ (David Cherwien, org./cond.; National Lutheran Choir )

Guaraldi: “Christmas Time Is Here“ (Vince Guaraldi Trio)

Susa: “Carols and Lullabies“ (VocalEssence; Philip Brunelle, cond.)

Adam: “O Holy Night“ (Choir of King's College, Cambridge; Stephen Cleobury, cond.)

Traditional: “O Come, O Come Emmanuel“ (Robert Shaw Chamber Singers; Robert Shaw, cond.)

Gruber: “Silent Night“ (Bryn Terfel, bass; Welsh National Opera Orchestra; Tecwyn Evans, cond.)

Handel: “Joy to the World“ (Voces8; Voces8 Foundation Choir; Voces8 Foundation Orchestra; Barnaby Smith, cond.)

Lauridsen: “O Magnum Mysterium“ (Los Angeles Master Chorale; Paul Salamunovich, cond.)

Praetorius: (arr. Sandstrom; orch. Amundson): “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming“ (St. Olaf Orchestra; Chung Park, cond.)

Holst: “In the Bleak Midwinter“ (MDR Radio Chorus Leipzig; Philipp Ahmann, cond.)

Berger: “Brazilian Psalm“ (St. Olaf Choir; Anton Armstrong, cond.)

Mendelssohn: “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing“ (Christopher Herrick, organ; Westminster Choir; Simon Preston, cond.

Traditional: “Coventry Carol“ (Pro Arte Singers; Paul Hillier, cond.)

Leontovich: “Carol of the Bells“ (the Sixteen; Harry Christophers, cond.)

Enjoy seasonal favorites and a variety of Christmas and Hanukkah programs. Here is a day-by-day guide to all of our special holiday programming for the 2024 season, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve.

Seasonal specials are presented on YourClassical MPR's stations and stream.

Programs — on-air and online

Listen to these programs on YourClassical MPR stations and online at the following times. Linked titles go to more information and on-demand audio (when available) to listen to the program at any time.

This listing will be updated regularly throughout the season with links and audio as they become available, so check back often.

All times are central.

Nov. 27, 6 p.m. — Every Good Thing: Giving thanks and celebrating the gift of music. Hosted by Andrea Blain.

Nov. 27, 7 p.m. — Songs of Thanks: The acclaimed octet Cantus weaves together stories and songs celebrating gratitude and community.

Nov. 28, 10 a.m. — Songs of Thanks (encore; see Nov. 27).

Nov. 28, 11 a.m. — Every Good Thing (encore; see Nov. 27).

Dec. 1, 6 p.m. — All Is Bright: An hourlong program of contemplative choral and solo vocal music of the season. Hosted by Lynne Warfel.

Dec. 3, 7 p.m. — Welcome Christmas: VocalEssence, one of the world's premier choral ensembles, presents traditional carols and new discoveries, including the world premiere of three Latvian carols by composer Ēriks Ešenvalds. Hosted by Bonnie North.

Dec. 4, 7 p.m. — Christmas at Luther: Love, the Rose, Is on the Way: Each December, the Center for Faith and Life at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, rings out with the sacred and the exuberant sounds of the Christmas season. Enjoy this 2023 program.

Dec. 8, 3 p.m. — St. Olaf Christmas Festival (live): The college in Northfield, Minnesota, presents one of the nation's most treasured holiday celebrations. This year’s event, Our Hope for Years to Come, will be livestreamed on YourClassical.org and aired on YourClassical MPR. Hosted by Valerie Kahler.

Dec. 9, 7 p.m. — St. Olaf Christmas Festival: Celebrating 150 Years of St. Olaf College: For one and a half centuries, St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, has been a hub of connections, knowledge and growth. And for more than a century, the St. Olaf Christmas Festival has been a cherished part of that history. Join us as we celebrate that legacy. Hosted by Valerie Kahler.

Dec. 10, 7 p.m. — Carols, Customs and Candlelight: A Celtic Christmas Celebration: Many Christmas songs and carols come from places like Ireland, Scotland, Brittany and other Celtic nations. Explore music and customs that have roots in ancient winter celebrations and traditional Christmas festivals. Hosted by Andrea Blain.

Dec. 11, 7 p.m. — Chanticleer Christmas: Holiday favorites presented live by the superb 12-man ensemble known as "an orchestra of voices," with a centuries-spanning program ranging from Renaissance masterworks to roof-raising spirituals. (Encore from 2023.) Hosted by Steve Staruch.

Dec. 12, 7 p.m. — Carols as Home: A holiday special featuring the Grammy-nominated quintet Imani Winds. Hosted by members of Imani Winds.

Dec. 16, 7 p.m. — Welcome Christmas (encore; see Dec. 3).

Dec. 17, 7 p.m. — Christmas with Cantus: The vocal ensemble Cantus weaves together three holiday stories with time-honored carols and new classics. Hosted by Melissa Ousley.

Dec 18, 7 p.m. — Carols, Customs and Candlelight: A Celtic Christmas Celebration (encore; see Dec. 10).

Dec. 19, 7 p.m. — YourClassical Christmas Favorites: Listen to the top Christmas songs, as ranked by listeners. Hosted by Tom Crann and Valerie Kahler.

Dec. 20, 7 p.m. — In Winter’s Glow: A special featuring music to celebrate the winter solstice, with a program chosen especially to complement the chilly, starry nights of the season. Hosted by Steve Seel.

Dec. 21, 7 p.m. — St. Olaf Christmas Festival: Celebrating 150 Years of St. Olaf College (encore; see Dec. 9).

Dec. 22, 2 p.m. — St. Paul Chamber Orchestra Performs Messiah (live): The SPCO will be joined by an all-star roster of vocal soloists and renowned vocal ensemble the Singers in what is sure to be a wonderful performance of Handel’s master work. Hosted by Steve Seel. On-demand audio will not be available for this program.

Dec. 23, 7 p.m. — Christmas with Cantus (encore; see Dec. 17).

Dec. 24, 9 a.m. — A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols: A time-honored service of biblical readings, carols and seasonal classical music, from King's College, Cambridge, England. The live broadcast is followed by an encore on Christmas Eve, with on-demand audio available here for 30 days afterward. Hosted by Michael Barone.

Dec. 24, 7 p.m. — A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols (encore).

Dec. 25, noon — YourClassical Christmas Favorites (encore; see Dec. 19).

Dec. 26, 7 p.m. — Candles Burning Brightly: A one-hour celebration of Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, which runs Dec. 25-Jan. 2. Hosted by Mindy Ratner.

Dec. 29, 7 p.m. — Candles Burning Brightly (encore; see Dec. 26).

Dec. 30, 7 p.m. — In Winter’s Glow (encore; see Dec. 20).

Jan. 1, 2 p.m. — New Year’s Celebration with the Minnesota Orchestra (live): Swing into 2025 with William Eddins and the Minnesota Orchestra, as they perform George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and George Antheil’s Jazz Symphony, along with the brilliant pianist Jon Kimura Parker. Hosted by Melissa Ousley.

Jan. 1, 4 p.m. — Vienna New Year’s Day Special: Usher in the new year with conductor Riccardo Muti and the world-famous Vienna Philharmonic. Listen live at 4 p.m. on Jan. 1 on YourClassical MPR. On-demand audio will not be available for this program.

Programs — online

Enjoy encore presentations of these popular holiday specials from the past now, with on-demand audio.

Anticipation and Celebration: Advent With the Montserrat Boy Choir: One of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious boys’ choirs is captured live in its Midwest premiere at the majestic Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis. Hosted by Steve Staruch.

Christmas with the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square: A celebration featuring a 360-voice choir, a 150-piece orchestra and a 32-member bell choir.

Echoes of Christmas – A Dale Warland Special: A holiday program featuring the legendary choir leader. Hosted by Steve Staruch.

Giving Thanks: A 25th-anniversary, contemporary celebration of spirit of gratitude. Hosted by John Birge.

Hollywood Holiday: A musical retrospective of our most-cherished Christmas-themed movies.

Hygge Holiday: A mix of wintry and nostalgic classical pieces designed to accompany listeners as they enjoy cozy wintertime activities. Hosted by Elena See.

A Soulful Christmas: An uplifting holiday special that features Black music and composers.

We Stand on Top of the Mountain: A Kwanzaa Celebration: A musical tribute to the Dec. 26-Jan. 1 holiday in which we celebrate African-American culture. Hosted by Jeffrey Yelverton.

A new, delightful hour for everyone to celebrate the Jewish Festival of Lights! Hosted by Mindy Ratner, Candles Burning Brightly features lots of music from Jewish communities worldwide, a hilarious lesson on preparing a classic Hanukkah dish, and a timeless and touching holiday story that brings light into every home.

Playlist

• Judith Clurman and David Chase: Chanukah Joy and Peace (Hebrew/English) — Essential Voices USA; Judith Clurman, conductor; Alan Kay, clarinet; Eliana Razzino Yang, cello; Jack Coen, piano

• Solomon Golub, arr. Zalmen Mlotek: Borukh Ate zingt der Tate (Yiddish) — Essential Voices USA; Judith Clurman, conductor

• Traditional, arr. Ger van Leeuwen: Hadlokas Haneir (Blessings for Kindling the Light) (Hebrew) — Cantor Hans Bloemendal; Choir of Netherlands Jewish Main Synagogue Amsterdam; Ger van Leeuwen, conductor

• Theodore Bikel reads The Lost Menorah by Howard Schwartz from Adam’s Soul: The Collected Tales of Howard Schwartz (published 1992 by Jason Aronson; now out of print); used with the kind permission of the author

• Traditional, arr. Zavel Zilberts: Haneros Haluli — The Knights; Eric Jacobsen, conductor

• Traditional: Haneyros Halalu — Lissa Schneckenburger, violin; Hankus Netsky, piano

• Robert Applebaum: Haneirot Halalu (Hebrew/English) — Chicago a cappella; John William Trotter, conductor

• Jay Ungar: Lights of Chanukah (English) — The Jay Ungar & Molly Mason Family Band; University of Mary Washington Philharmonic Orchestra; Kevin P. Bartram, conductor

• Flory Jagoda, arr. Steve Barnett: Ocho Candelikas (Ladino) — Chanticleer and Chanticleer Holiday Orchestra; Joseph Jennings, conductor

Break

• Traditional: Kitaltas (Ladino) — Theodore Bikel; Elizabeth Parvin; George Kirby; members of the New England Conservatory Jewish Music Ensemble; Hankus Netsky, conductor

• Chasia Segal: Latke Cooking Demonstration

• Flory Jagoda: Hanuka (Ladino) — Voice of the Turtle

• Traditional, arr. Ger van Leeuwen: Moôs Tzur (Hebrew) — Cantor Hans Bloemendal; Choir and Instrumental Ensemble of Netherlands Jewish Main Synagogue Amsterdam; Ger van Leeuwen, conductor

• Traditional (Italian): Maoz Tzur (Hebrew) — Zamir Chorale of Boston; Joshua Jacobson, conductor

• Traditional, arr. Benedetto Marcello: Maoz Tzur (Hebrew) — Zamir Chorale of Boston; Joshua Jacobson, conductor

• Hugo C Adler: Maoz Tzur (Hebrew) — Zamir Chorale of Boston; Joshua Jacobson, cond

• Traditional, arr. Steve Barnett: S’vivon (Hebrew) — New England Conservatory Chorus; Tamara Brooks, conductor

• Abe Ellstein and Moishe Oysher, arr. Abe Ellstein, Joshua Jacobson and Hankus Netsky: Drey Dreydele (Yiddish) — Cantor Morton Shames; New England Conservatory Chorus; New England Conservatory Jewish Music Ensemble

• Traditional, arr. Zavel Zilberts: Haneros Haluli — The Knights; Eric Jacobsen, conductor

Menorahs/Chanukiot (Hebrew)

The candelabrum is a central object in the observance of Chanukah because the holiday is all about light! But what this item is called can be the source of friendly debate. It's common in the United States to refer to the candelabrum used at Chanukah as a menorah. Technically, it is... but a menorah can have any number of branches, while the menorah used at Chanukah – called a chanukia (plural: chanukiot) – has branches for eight candles, plus one for the shamash, the "helper” that is used to light the rest of the candles. The candles should never be extinguished, but should be allowed to burn down by themselves.

Mindy writes about a special menorah

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Dreidels

The dreidel is a four-sided spinning top used for a little low-level gambling game played at Hanukkah.

The sides of the dreidel show the Hebrew letters נ (nun), ℷ (gimel), ה (hei) and ש (shin), which stand for the words "nes gadol haya sham" — meaning, "A great miracle happened there."

So what's at stake? Pennies, or nuts-in-the-shell, or small pieces of chocolate.

Learn how to play.

See more on dreidels in the photos below.

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More music for Hanukkah

Enjoy these additional features and stories to enhance your experience of Candles Burning Brightly®.

1. 8 songs for 8 nights: Music for Hanukkah

2. Harpist Sunita Staneslow plays 'Ocho Candelikas'

3. Itzhak Perlman's Chanukah Radio Party

Editor's note: On-demand audio for this year’s St. Olaf Christmas Festival, which was aired live on Dec. 8, is not available. On-demand audio for YourClassical MPR’s 150th-anniversary celebration of St. Olaf College, along with a playlist, is expected to be added Dec. 9.

For one and a half centuries, St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, has been a hub of connections, knowledge and growth. And for more than a century, the St. Olaf Christmas Festival has been a cherished part of that history. Join us as we celebrate their legacy.

Started in 1912 by F. Melius Christiansen, founder of the St. Olaf College Music Department, the St. Olaf Christmas Festival includes hymns, carols, choral works and orchestral selections celebrating the Nativity. It has grown over the years to feature the St. Olaf Choir, the St. Olaf Orchestra, the St. Olaf Cantorei, the St. Olaf Chapel Choir, the Manitou Singers and the Viking Chorus, performing as individual groups and as a massed ensemble.

Sponsors

Radio broadcasts of the St. Olaf Christmas Festival are made possible as a gift to the community by Tad and Cindy Piper.

Video is produced through the generosity and support of St. Olaf's sponsors:

Paul and Margot Grangaard

David and Cynthia Hill

The Mark and Laura Johnson Family

Tim and Jan Maudlin with gratitude for the Lutheran Center for Faith, Values and Community

The Tomson Family Foundation