All City Children’s Chorus Joins CSO for Magical Holiday Classics

The CSO is excited to have the All-City Children’s Chorus join us after intermission for a delightful series of selections! We’ll begin with the enchanting Do You Hear What I Hear? This timeless piece, composed in 1962 with heartfelt lyrics by Noël Regney and beautiful music by Gloria Shayne, was famously brought to life by Bing Crosby in 1963. With tens of millions of copies sold and covers by beloved artists like Andy Williams, Mahalia Jackson, Kate Smith, and Bob Dylan, this song truly resonates across generations!

Following this uplifting start, the CSO and the All-City Children’s Chorus will enchant the audience with Ose Shalom, meaning “Who Makes Peace.” This captivating composition by the talented Nurit Hirsh debuted at the first Hasidic Song Festival in 1969, where it earned a third-place award. With a delightful blend of klezmer and bossa nova influences, Ose Shalom quickly won hearts in Israel and has since found a cherished place in synagogues and Jewish communities around the globe. Hirsh shared a touching sentiment during a 2013 performance, reflecting on her deep connection to this piece and the Jewish people. She noted, “I composed this song to words from the Kaddish, and every time I hear people sing it, it moves me like it’s the first time.”

Adding to the festive spirit, The Magic of Christmas will shine brightly during CSO’s Holiday Magic concert. This joyful piece with original lyrics by Chana Wise, was composed by Robert Intriligator, Maestro Intriligator’s brother, bringing a personal touch to the performance.

Next, the All-City Children’s Chorus, under the enthusiastic direction of their Artistic Director, Janet Weisbrook, will delight the crowd with The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy. This beloved traditional Christmas carol joyfully recounts the birth of Jesus Christ, celebrated in various cultural interpretations, including reggae! The song emphasizes Jesus’ significance as the Savior, with its captivating refrain reminding us of his divine origins.

As part of our cherished tradition, the concert will conclude with a spirited sing-along featuring the CSO, combined choirs, and our enthusiastic audience. This year’s Christmas Sing-Along, arranged by Hemmer, captures the joyful holiday spirit with beloved classics like Deck the Halls, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, and Jingle Bells.

This lively sing-along is a wonderful way to wrap up this year’s Holiday Magic performance, uniting us in the joy of music and the warmth of the season.