JoAnn's Classical Christmas
Conducted by JoAnn Falletta, this reflective holiday concert features tenor John Riesen, guest flutists, and the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus. Visitors hear an elegant orchestral program spanning classic seasonal favorites, choral masterpieces, and operatic selections. Featured pieces include the Pas de Deux from The Nutcracker, Handel's “Hallelujah” Chorus, Bach's Christmas Oratorio, and Alan Silvestri's “Believe.”
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Hours
December 11: 10:30 am; December 12: 7:30 pm.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
West Side
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Buy your tickets through the BPO Box Office, because it is the only official seller and entry isn't guaranteed with tickets from third-party resellers.
- Choose your performance carefully before buying, since single ticket sales are final and you can't exchange or refund them.
- Pick the Friday morning performance or the Saturday evening performance, depending on which suits your schedule, because the program is the same at both.
- Fans of The Polar Express should know that Believe is in the second half, after the intermission, along with the Hallelujah Chorus.
Links & Contact
Run by Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who performs in this concert?
JoAnn Falletta conducts. Tenor John Riesen sings, and flutists Natalie Scanio and Arianna Scanio play. The Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus joins them under music director Dr. Vernon Huff.
What music is on the program?
The first half has Randol Bass's Fanfare on Joy to the World, the Pas de Deux from The Nutcracker, Vivaldi's Concerto for Two Flutes, O Holy Night, Nessun dorma and a chorus from Bach's Christmas Oratorio. After intermission come Dance of the Tumblers, Darin Kelly's Of Nights and Lights, Believe from The Polar Express, Respighi's Adoration of the Magi, the Hallelujah Chorus and Anderson's A Christmas Festival.
What kind of mood does the concert have?
It is a quieter, reflective concert, shaped for reflection as much as celebration. It is a calm pause from the holiday rush, with voices and orchestra filling Kleinhans Music Hall.
Is there an intermission?
Yes. The program is in two halves. The intermission comes after the Bach Christmas Oratorio selection.
Can I exchange or get a refund on my tickets?
No. Single ticket sales are final, with no exchanges or refunds. The BPO Box Office is the only official ticket seller. Entry isn't guaranteed if you buy from a third-party reseller.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.