Christmas carols: The good, bad and ugly

The St. Olaf Christmas Festival has become one of the nation's most cherished holiday celebrations. Listen now as the Northfield-based college presents its 2022 program, “Promise of Peace,” from Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis, with host Valerie Kahler, in this one-hour special.

The Minneapolis youth choir Known MPLS is making an impact in song and in community. ‘Known MPLS first and foremost exists to consistently provide a safe space for youth to thrive,’ director Courtland Pickens says. Find out more about these remarkable singers, and watch their performance of ‘Up Above My Head.’

Over three days in mid-November, the Voces8 Scholars, the U.S.-based training ensemble for the U.K.’s esteemed Voces8, recorded two Christmas songs prepared exclusively for YourClassical MPR listeners as part of our Carol Countdown. Watch now!

Celebrate Earth Day, April 22, with the Choral Arts Ensemble’s performance of ‘The Wisdom of Nature,’ a choral program that celebrates the wonder, the power and the beauty of nature. Listen now with host Steve Staruch.

‘Christmas With Cantus’ is a beloved holiday tradition for YourClassical MPR listeners featuring the eight voices of the male vocal ensemble live in concert.

'All Is Bright', with host Lynne Warfel, offers an hour of gorgeous, contemplative choral music that tells the traditional Christmas story with songs about angels, the star and the manger scene. Featured artists include Cantus, Chanticleer, Cambridge Singers, Bryn Terfel, Emma Kirkby, Jessye Norman, and a variety of choirs.

The Minnesota-based vocal ensemble 29:11 International Exchange recently presented a fantastic display of African-rooted music and traditions to the enthusiastic students of Harding High School in St. Paul. Watch now!

On Friday, April 5, the Oratorio Society of Minnesota and the University Singers will perform the U.S. premiere of British composer Charles Villiers Stanford’s ‘The Three Holy Children.’ Listen as host Steve Staruch speaks to artistic director Matthew Mehaffey about the piece in advance of the concert.

What is the story behind Handel’s ‘Messiah,’ and why is it performed at both Christmas and Easter? Here’s everything you need to know about this enduring holiday masterpiece, including the best recordings.

This Easter, as always, the 'Messiah' oratorio is in full play. But do you want to venture beyond Handel's masterpiece? Then check out our picks for 10 other great works for Holy Week.