An Alpharetta Holiday

French hornist, Andrew Davidson

We invite you to take a musical journey through the sounds, stories, and celebrations that make this time of year so special as we present An Alpharetta Holiday on November 30.

We’ll begin with a real showpiece for the orchestra, Leroy Anderson’s A Christmas Festival. It’s a sparkling overture that weaves together some of the best-loved carols in one joyful burst of holiday cheer.

Next, we’ll travel to Tchaikovsky’s enchanting world of The Nutcracker, with two favorite dances: the graceful Dance of the Reed Pipes and the charming Tea (Chinese Dance). Then, we head to France for the lively Farandole by Georges Bizet, a work full of energy, rhythm, and pure joy.

From there, we’ll return home with Appalachian Carol, a tender, folk-inspired melody that captures the quiet beauty of an American Christmas. The celebration continues with A Hanukkah Festival, a bright and spirited medley honoring the traditions and music of the Festival of Lights.

Next comes the timeless beauty of What Child Is This (Greensleeves), followed by A Christmas Overture: Variations on Deck the Halls, a playful, creative take on a familiar tune. We’ll then pause for a moment of peace with Stille Nacht, or Silent Night, before lightening the mood with The Twelve Days of Christmas, a cheerful reminder of the fun and togetherness this season brings.

We end our program with a tune that needs no introduction. Few works capture the sparkle and joy of the holiday season as vividly as Sleigh Ride. Composed by American light-music master Leroy Anderson, the work was originally written as an instrumental work during a heatwave in July, proof that winter cheer can bloom even in the middle of summer.

From all of us in the Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra, thank you for spending this evening with us. We wish you a joyous holiday season and a wonderful new year!