NHSO To Perform Holiday Concert

FAIRFIELD — New Haven Symphony Orchestra (NHSO) will celebrate the yuletide season with its “Holiday Pops Concert,” to be conducted by Associate Conductor Gerald Steichen and to feature guest artists soprano Amanda Borst and baritone Brian Mulligan. The concert will be held at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts on North Benson Road, on Friday, December 15, at 7:30 pm. Voce, one of Connecticut’s premiere new vocal ensembles, will make its debut with NHSO.

The holiday spectacular will offer a rich tapestry of new, traditional and less-often-heard sacred and festive music. The program will include the world premiere of Lisa DeSpain’s “An American Nativity” with full vocal participation; “Fantasia on Christmas Carols” sung by Mr Mulligan and Voce; “Still, Still, Still” sung by Voce; “Aria in Classic Style,” a harp solo; and the serene hymn “O Holy Night” sung by Ms Borst and chorus. Traditional carols and a Christmas memories sing-along will round out the program.

Mr Steichen is recognized as one of the country’s most versatile musicians, with talents as accompanist, composer and arranger. He also has conducted at New York City Opera, both at Lincoln Center and at Saratoga Performing Arts Center and is in much demand as a guest conductor in the United States and abroad. Ms Borst and Mr Mulligan are burgeoning young singers and both have received great critical acclaim.

Voce was founded in 2006 by musicians committed to the belief that music is a powerful force for change. Their mission is to promote education and philanthropy through excellence in the performing arts. They have joined forces with NHSO to help promote funding for NHSO’s concerto competition for aspiring young musicians. Its Members are from Connecticut and beyond and they bring together years of choral ensemble work and vocal training.

Tickets are $30 and $35. Discounts are available for seniors and students with valid ID. To purchase tickets, call the Quick Center box office at 203-254-4010 or 877-ARTS-396 (877-278-7396). For more information visit QuickCenter.com.