The Portland Symphony Orchestra’s 44th annual “Magic of Christmas” opens on Friday, Dec. 8. Performances continue through the weekend, and again the weekend of Dec. 15, for a total of 12 performances. In addition, the PSO will provide a watch-from-home option on PortlandSymphonyTV.com beginning Dec. 16, making the concerts available to people across the country. The performances welcome the return of audience favorites performer Susie Pepper, the Magic of Christmas Chorus, singer Leon Griesbach, and James Kennerly on the Kotzschmar Organ.
Guest Susie Pepper, the winner of Fox23’s “Maine Idol” competition in 2008 and Miss Maine in 2009, performs in many settings from small jazz venues with her quartet to large rock concerts.
Guest Leon Griesbach is a baritone soloist, organist, teacher, choral conductor, and piano technician based in Lisbon, Maine. He has appeared as a soloist and conductor across the US and Italy.
“Magic of Christmas” schedule
Friday, Dec. 8, at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 9, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 10, at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 15, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 16, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 18, at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
“Magic of Christmas” program
Arr. Hans-Peter Preu New Commission
Leontovych arr. Naughtin Carol of the Bells
Guaraldi arr. Naughtin Christmas Time is Here
Faith Hill arr. Hansen “Where Are You Christmas?” from Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Michael W. Smith arr. Hansen Christmas Day
Con Fullam orch. by Eastburn The Maine Christmas Song
Handel “Hallelujah Chorus” from Messiah
Lucas Richman Hanukkah Festival Overture
Danny Elfman Arr. Brown Selections from Nightmare Before Christmas
David Foster and Linda Thompson-Jenner arr. McKenzie Grown-Up Christmas List
Traditional arr. Hansen as performed by Josh Groban and Faith Hill The First Noel
Anderson Sleigh Ride
Arr. Finnegan Christmas Sing-Along
For full details about tickets for in-person performances and digital access, visit portlandsymphony.org.
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