Holiday ConcertHoliday Concert
Friday, December 19, 2025 7:30 pm
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1 hour and 45 minutes, including intermission
Celebrate sounds of the holidays with the PCO. Come sing along to your favorite music of the season, from Handel’s Messiah (Part I) to your favorite carols. This concert is sure to fuel your holiday spirit!
Concert Facts:
Handel's Messiah was composed in 24 days, and was originally conceived as a work for Easter—its world premiere was given during Lent.
The Nutcracker premiered in 1892 at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, and was initially criticized for its lack of a coherent plot and artistic depth; however, today it is considered a seasonal classic. But did you know, The Nutcracker almost wasn't called The Nutcracker? The original working title for the ballet was The Christmas Tree and, alternatively The Fir Tree.
- Parking
Nittany Deck
The Penn State Recital Hall is located near the northwest corner of the campus, and visitor parking is available at the Nittany Parking Deck for an hourly rate. ALL SURFACE LOTS ON THE UNIVERSITY PARK CAMPUS ARE RESERVED. Please use one of the parking decks designated for visitors.
Patrons with mobility impairments may be dropped off in front of the Music Buildings at Allen Road. Handicap-accessible parking spaces are available in the Nittany deck. State-issued disability parking placards are required for access to the handicap-accessible parking spaces.
For information regarding parking during the day, campus maps, one-day visitor parking passes, and change for parking meters, please visit any of the parking kiosks on campus.
Smoking is not permitted in any of the School of Music facilities.
Food and beverages are not permitted in the audience seating area.
Program
- G. F. HandelMessiah, Part I
- Arr. Edward D. ZeliffChristmas Overture
- P. I. TchaikovskyMarch (from Nutcracker Suite)
- ImprovisationAfrican Drums
- P. I. TchaikovskyArabian Dance (from Nutcracker Suite)
- Arr. Bill HolcombeFestive Sounds of Hanukah
- P. I. TchaikovskyWaltz of the Flowers (from Nutcracker Suite)
- Handel/MozartHallelujah from Messiah (singalong)
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Parking & Venue
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What To Expect
Questions about what to expect at the concert hall? Wondering what to wear? Check out our Guide to The Orchestra to plan your visit and have a transformative concert experience!
What to Expect