At the UGA Performing Arts Center, tiny lights blanket the lobby and Christmas trees adorn the stage. That means it’s time for the Holiday Music Series, in which international and local artists sing and play seasonal music at Hodgson Concert Hall.
The Athens Choral Society presents its holiday program, “Christmas Ornaments,” which includes familiar carols in settings by Randol Bass and Bob Chilcott. Tue., Dec. 5, at 7:30 p.m. Free — no tickets required.
A Celtic Family Christmas with Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy
“MacMaster and Leahy are brilliant violinists who know what they’re doing and do it very well, all the while bringing charisma and palpable joy to the proceedings.”—Worcester Telegram & Gazette
Two married fiddlers from Cape Breton, Canada appear with their seven fiddling, singing and step dancing children. With a set list of familiar Christmas songs intermingled with classic Celtic tunes, MacMaster and Leahy bring you in the door and warmly welcome you as part of the family. Wed., Dec. 6, 7:30 pm. Supported by Gordhan and Jinx Patel; Malcolm and Priscilla Sumner.
“The ensemble has set a standard so high that a greater level of musical perfection is simply not conceivable.”—Bachtrack
The reigning classical a cappella group tells the Christmas story from the perspective of the shepherds. Evocative Renaissance motets and Masses express wonder and joy. Sun., Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m. Supported by Carolyn T. Howell, The Trashy Book Club of Athens.
Before the Tallis Scholars concert, join us for a free pre-performance Q&A with director Peter Philips and Sarah Frook Gallo, Interim Associate Director of Choral Activities in the Hugh Hodgson School of Music, in Ramsey Concert Hall from 6:15-6:45 pm.
The Georgia Children’s Chorus draws children between the ages of 7 and 18 from eleven counties and more than thirty public, private and home school groups. The ensemble performs its holiday program, “A Spirit of Hope,” Tue., Dec. 12, 7:00 p.m.
Handel’s Messiah with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chamber Chorus
“There’s plenty of beauty to be heard here.”—ClassicsToday.com
A Christmas Tradition! The ASO, its resident choir and impressive young soloists perform the Christmas portion of Handel’s beloved oratorio, plus the Hallelujah Chorus. They begin with a Christmas cantata by J.S. Bach. Sat. Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m. Supported by Donald Schneider; Carl W. Duyck and Dennis J. Flood.
“There is a reason that Balsam Range is at the top of the bluegrass world — they have the talent and charisma required to move an entire audience.”—Cultural Voice of North Carolina
Balsam Range is an award-winning traditional bluegrass band from western North Carolina. The group takes its name from the majestic Great Balsam Mountains, located at the intersection of the Blue Ridge and Smokies. They’ll play a mix of well-known hits and holiday favorites. Thurs, Dec. 21, 7:30 p.m. Supported by Herb West and Myrna Adams West.
THREE WAYS TO ORDER TICKETS
- Purchase tickets online 24/7 online here.
- Call the Performing Arts Center Box Office at (706) 542-4400, Mon.-Fri., 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
- Visit the UGA Performing Arts Center Box Office, Mon.-Fri., 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (5 minute parking is available in the drop off circle at the Performing Arts Center for purchasing or picking up tickets.)