Concert Notes

" Winter's Voice"

Do You Hear What I Hear?

Written in 1962 by Noël Regney and Gloria Shayne, this beloved carol was composed during the Cuban Missile Crisis as a musical prayer for peace. Its lyrical conversation between night wind, animals, shepherds, and kings reflects both innocence and hope as it builds toward the message of bringing “goodness and light” to the world.

Silent Night

First performed on Christmas Eve in 1818 in a small Austrian village, “Silent Night” has become one of the most treasured carols around the world. Its simple melody and peaceful imagery have inspired countless translations and arrangements; in 2011, it was declared an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

Winter Lullaby

Inspired by Eugene Field’s classic poem “Christmas Eve,” this piece captures the quiet magic of a winter night. Through gentle lines and shimmering harmonies, Winter Lullaby evokes imagery of soft snowfall, glowing stars, and the hushed wonder that settles across the world as the season deepens.

A Winter Day — Sarah Quartel

Sarah Quartel’s A Winter Day paints a musical portrait of a single day in winter, from sunrise to sunset. Drawing on memories of snowy Canadian mornings, Quartel captures the crisp light of dawn, the peaceful rhythm of a world blanketed in white, and the tranquil descent of twilight. Her writing blends warmth with clarity, creating a soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive.

Silver Bells

Originally introduced in the 1951 film The Lemon Drop Kid, “Silver Bells” quickly became synonymous with holiday city streets — bustling sidewalks, glowing displays, and the joyful commotion of the season. Its gentle sway and bright melody continue to evoke timeless holiday imagery.

Christmas Mem’ries

A reflective piece that captures the essence of holiday nostalgia, “Christmas Mem’ries” invites listeners to revisit cherished traditions of years past. With warm harmonies and tender text, it celebrates the moments — and the people — that shape our sense of home during the holidays.

Because It’s Christmas

Upbeat, heartfelt, and rooted in the spirit of generosity, “Because It’s Christmas” highlights the deeper meaning of the season: the impulse to share joy, kindness, and hope. This piece embodies the uplifting warmth that brings families and communities together each year.



Rudolph / Frosty / Suzy Snowflake Medley

This playful medley brings together three iconic winter characters: Rudolph with his shining red nose, Frosty with his jolly mischief, and Suzy Snowflake dancing delicately across the snow. Each song carries its own slice of holiday magic, and together they form a festive celebration of imagination and childhood wonder.

Home for the Holidays

Released in 1954 and made instantly famous by Perry Como, “Home for the Holidays” captures the timeless longing to return to the people and places that mean the most. With its warm melody and cheerful message, this classic reminds us that the heart of the season is connection — wherever “home” may be.