Friday, December 19, 2025 7:30 pm

Penn State Recital Hall

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:

#1

Handel's Messiah was composed in 24 days, and was originally conceived as a work for Easter—its world premiere was given during Lent.

#2

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.