Christmas is in the air (and on the air!), and you can delve into the festive season next Saturday evening, at 8 p.m., on WHRO FM with “This Just In.” Raymond Jones has expertly curated three hours of new classical releases that capture the magic of the season.
The evening begins with “A Christmas Symphony” by Robert Arnot, performed by the Vienna Synchron Orchestra. This newly released album from Wiener Klassische offers a symphonic exploration of Christmas, blending familiar festive melodies with innovative arrangements that evoke both nostalgia and wonder.
From there, we set sail with “A Pirate’s Christmas” by Rick Sowash, a whimsical piece that combines the enchantment of the holiday season with the thrill of high-seas adventure. The Sylvan Trio—known for their versatility and expressive artistry—brings Sowash’s compositions to life with charm and precision.
After this adventurous piece, Raymond Jones will take us to the UK to enjoy a “Christmas Story” an album that bridges ancient tradition and contemporary musical language. Composed by Gabriel Jackson and performed by the Choir of Merton College with the Oxford Contemporary Sinfonia, this work reflects the deep spiritual essence of the Nativity while engaging modern sensibilities creating an emotionally rich journey through the Christmas season.
Following the same line, listeners will discover “Nativity”, the latest composition of Edward Nesbit, a testament to the evolving landscape of choral music that blends the reverence of tradition with the vibrancy of modern composition. The Choir of King's College London, with its history of excellence, is the perfect ensemble to interpret this work, offering a performance that is both technically masterful and profoundly moving.
The program concludes with a visit to Ukraine, celebrating the nation’s rich holiday music tradition through a selection of pieces performed by violinist Solomiya Ivakhiv and the Lviv National Symphony Orchestra. This deeply emotional album breathes new life into Ukrainian carols and classical works, capturing the resilience and spirituality of a nation during the holiday season.
As you enjoy this extraordinary lineup of holiday music, we encourage you to support WHRO-FM during our Membership Drive. Your contributions make programs like “This Just In” possible, allowing us to continue bringing exceptional music and unforgettable experiences to your home. Tune in to WHRO-FM 90.3, or listen online through the WHRO Media Player, and let the joy of the season fill your heart, one note at a time.
