Happy Holidays from all of us at Classical WETA!
Bringing you the gift of classical music throughout the year on Classical WETA 90.9 FM.
Feb 09, 2010 | WDC: 26.6 °F
Washington’s source for compelling television and inspiring classical music
Happy Holidays from WETA!
Enjoy holiday music on Classical WETA 90.9 FM and holiday programs on WETA Television! See below for details:
Holiday music on Classical WETA 90.9 FM
Join us this season for beautiful holiday music! Songs of the season will be featured on Classical WETA 90.9 FM alongside regular classical programming, including a celebration of the beginning of Hanukkah on the evening of Friday, December 11.
Starting November 27
The frequency of holiday music will increase during December and culminate in exclusive holiday programming starting Christmas Eve morning.
December 24-27: "Home for the Holidays" weekend
Throughout the long weekend we'll present Christmas-inspired classical music as well as the best classical arrangements of Christmas carols. Tune in to Classical WETA as you and yours gather around the tree!
December 24: Christmas Eve
- 10:00 am: A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, live from King's College, Cambridge, England
- 12:00 noon: Christmas Eve Carolfest, seven hours of the best choral, vocal, and instrumental arrangements of traditional Christmas carols.
- 7:00 pm: Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker
December 25: Christmas Day
- 12:00 noon: Handel's Messiah
- 7:00 pm: Re-broadcast of A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, from King's College, Cambridge, England
January 1, 2010: New Year's Day
- 11:00 am: Join us on New Year's Day 2010, for a sparkling celebration from the Golden Hall at the Musikverein in Vienna. The Vienna Philharmonic presents its annual New Year's Day from Vienna, including favorite waltzes and other typically Viennese works, all conducted by the esteemed French conductor Georges Prêtre.
Holiday programs on WETA Television
Andrea Bocelli and David Foster: My Christmas
Airs on Nov 29 and additional dates
Everyone’s favorite “Hitman” David Foster joins superstar tenor Andrea Bocelli for a new Christmas concert of seasonal favorites. Showcasing Bocelli’s soaring vocals are lush new arrangements given the distinctive Foster touch. Recorded at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles, the program features special guests Natalie Cole, Mary J. Blige, Reba McEntire, Welsh mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins, the Muppets and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. From Great Performances.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Arthur's Perfect Christmas
Airs on Dec 25 and additional dates
Plans are underway in Elwood City for the best holidays ever as Arthur, D.W., their family and friends make preparations for perfect gifts, perfect parties and perfect family traditions for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and even “Baxter Day” (Buster and his mom’s special celebration). The only problem is, just like in real life, perfection is hard to attain and things start to fall apart.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Celtic Woman: Songs from the Heart
Airs on Dec 1 and additional dates
Celtic Woman vocalists Lisa Kelly, Chloe Agnew, Lynn Hilary and Alex Sharpe, with violinist Mairead Nesbitt, perform at Ireland’s historic Powerscourt House and Gardens in Enniskerry, County Wicklow. The musical repertoire ranges from spirited Celtic fiddle and bodhran pieces to lush arrangements of Irish classics, contemporary covers and original compositions. In addition to the six-piece band, the Aontas Choir, a film orchestra, the Discovery Gospel Choir, the Extreme Rhythm Drummers and a bagpipe ensemble join Celtic Woman for this television event.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Christmas at Belmont 2009
Airs on Dec 23 and additional dates
Three-time Grammy Award winner and Belmont University alumna Trisha Yearwood hosts a holiday program of traditional carols, classical masterworks, world music and light-hearted seasonal favorites. More than 400 student voices join Yearwood, the Belmont School of Music faculty and the Nashville Children’s Choir to present this annual production, taped at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville, Tennessee. The program will feature Phoenix, Belmont University’s 10-voice pop, R&B, rock and alternative ensemble; Session, a female a cappella ensemble; Jazzmin, a 12-voice blues, swing, bebop and contemporary jazz group; and the Women’s Choir.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Christmas at Luther: Night of Glory, Dawn of Peace
Airs on Dec 25 and additional dates
Music, glowing candlelight and the robed choristers of Iowa's Luther College capture the joy of the holiday season. This year's special features performances by six choirs, the symphony orchestra, organ, hand bell choir, Christmas Brass and Percussion Ensemble; caroling; and the lighting of candles that encircle the audience in light.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Christmas in Yellowstone
Airs on Dec 21 and additional dates
As snow falls and Christmas lights glow in Jackson Hole, a holiday season of a different sort settles in just beyond the town, in the great winter world of Yellowstone. Breathtaking landscapes frame intimate scenes of wolves and coyotes, elk and bison, bears and otters as they make their way through their most challenging season of the year. The program journeys in the footsteps of the men who first explored the park, and travels with their modern-day counterpart on his own journey of discovery. From the unique crystals of individual snowflakes to the grand sweep of Yellowstone's Hayden Valley, this is a Christmas like no other. From Nature.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Christmas with the Annie Moses Band
Airs on Nov 30 and additional dates
Six siblings, all classically trained musicians, offer a fresh fusion of sounds, incorporating pop, jazz, bluegrass and classical. The Annie Moses Band — Annie (lead vocals, violin), Alex (viola, background vocals), Benjamin (cello), Gretchen (violin, mandolin), Camille (harp, piano) and Jeremiah (guitar) — spread holiday cheer with classic carols.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Christmas with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir featuring Brian Stokes Mitchell and Ed Herrmann
Airs on Dec 16 and additional dates
Christmas with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir is an annual holiday concert featuring the renowned choir and orchestra at Temple Square, the Bells on Temple Square, and dancers from the University of Utah Ballet Department. Tony Award-winner Brian Stokes Mitchell joins the choir and orchestra in a magnificent Christmas celebration featuring some of the season’s most beloved songs. The program also features a reading of “The Christmas Story” by actor Ed Herrmann.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas
Airs on Nov 28 and additional dates
Go on a holiday adventure with Curious George as he prepares for Christmas Day in this charming new holiday special. A Very Monkey Christmas finds George and The Man with the Yellow Hat preparing for Christmas, when they encounter a dilemma — neither can figure out what to give the other for a present! The special features some of the series’ most beloved characters in a story that reveals the true spirit of the holiday season, and highlights the importance of spending time with those you love all year long.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Faith Hill, Joy to the World
Airs on Dec 24 and additional dates
Musical artist Faith Hill, backed by an orchestra, presents favorites from her holiday album Joy to the World, a collection of standards. The performances at the Chicago-area Sears Centre Arena feature booming orchestral arrangements, swinging, big-band versions of popular holiday songs and choir-backed spiritual songs. A Soundstage special.
When to watch on WETA Television »
From Jesus to Christ: The First Christians
Airs on Dec 15 and additional dates
FRONTLINE presents the epic story of the rise of Christianity. Drawing upon new and sometimes controversial historical evidence, the series transports viewers back two thousand years to the time and place where Jesus of Nazareth once lived and preached and challenges familiar assumptions and conventional notions about the origins of Christianity.
When to watch on WETA Television »
L.A. Holiday Celebration 2009
Airs on Dec 25 and additional dates
This program is a highlight version of the Los Angeles County Holiday Celebration that took place in the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion of the Music Center on Christmas Eve 2008. The admission-free holiday-themed show has been presented as a gift to the people of the county every December 24 since 1960. Attendance has become a seasonal tradition for many Angelenos. The 1,000-1,500 performers participating each year represent the many cultures and holiday traditions found in the county.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Michael McDonald: This Christmas
Airs on Dec 24 and additional dates
Singer Michael McDonald combines yuletide favorites such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “White Christmas” with the Stevie Wonder Motown classic “What Christmas Means to Me” and some of his signature hits for a perfect blend of holiday cheer. McDonald’s soulful, throaty baritone infuses a unique vocal styling that adds a perfect twist to the holiday season. A Soundstage special.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Mystery of the Three Kings
Airs on Dec 24 and additional dates
Celebrated in many parts of the world, the Three Wise Men have magical significance in the birth of Christ. This program unearths the real-life places, people, festivities and facts behind the exotic legend. From southern Arabia to Ethiopia and Babylon, the program brings to life the joy and enchanting mystery of one of the most famous events surrounding Christ’s birth.
When to watch on WETA Television »
National Christmas Tree Lighting 2009
Airs on Dec 4 and additional dates
This special 60-minute program features an all-star lineup of musicians for the National Christmas Tree Lighting, an annual holiday tradition featuring the lighting of the National Christmas Tree, a Colorado blue spruce planted on the Ellipse near the White House.
When to watch on WETA Television »
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New York Philharmonic New Year's Eve: Hampson, Gershwin, Copland & Broadway
Airs on Dec 31 and additional dates
The New York Philharmonic’s New Year’s Eve gala, with new music director Alan Gilbert and baritone Thomas Hampson, celebrates all-American music from Gershwin, Copland and Broadway. This glamorous evening features Gershwin’s beloved “An American in Paris,” Copland’s “Appalachian Spring Suite” and “Old American Songs,” as well as selections from various Broadway musicals. From Live from Lincoln Center.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Radio City Christmas Spectacular Starring The Rockettes
Airs on Nov 26 and additional dates
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the world-famous Rockettes, has become America’s number-one holiday show over its storied 77-year history. This multifaceted show includes dynamic Rockette performances that showcase the dancers' signature precision dance style. Traditional fan favorites such as the “Living Nativity” scene and “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” have been part of the show since its inception in 1933.
When to watch on WETA Television »
A Renaissance Christmas
Airs on Dec 21 and additional dates
Chicago's celebrated Music of the Baroque Chorus and Brass celebrates the sounds of the holiday season with joyful carols, solemn chants and vibrant works for brass. The concert in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit includes both Renaissance and Baroque pieces for chorus and brass.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Rick Steves' European Christmas
Airs on Nov 28 and additional dates
Travel expert Rick Steves explores how diverse European cultures celebrate Christmas in locations from England to Norway, Burgandy to Bavaria, and from Rome to the Swiss Alps.
When to watch on WETA Television »
San Francisco Ballet's Nutcracker
Airs on Dec 21 and additional dates
The San Francisco Ballet presents The Nutcracker with its setting transposed to San Francisco's 1915 Pan-Pacific Exposition. San Francisco Ballet artistic director Helgi Tomasson's production features dazzling sets by Michael Yeargan and opulent costumes by Martin Pakledinaz. Olympic champion figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi hosts. From Great Performances.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Straight No Chaser – Live In New York: Holiday Edition
Airs on Nov 29 and additional dates
The a cappella phenomenon Straight No Chaser, the 10 men whose quirky version of “The 12 Days of Christmas” is a YouTube sensation, presents an entertaining evening for everyone. The special includes holiday favorites from their new album including “The Christmas Can Can” and “Hey Santa!,” and, of course, the song that started it all, “The 12 Days of Christmas.”
When to watch on WETA Television »
The Three Tenors Christmas
Airs on Nov 26 and additional dates
José Carreras, Plácido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti perform popular holiday songs and sacred songs at the Konzerthaus in Vienna, Austria, in a special taped in December 1999. The trio is accompanied by the Vienna Symphony and joined by the Gumpoldskirchner Spatzen Children's Choir.
When to watch on WETA Television »
Trans Siberian Orchestra: Ghosts Of Christmas Eve
Airs on Nov 28 and additional dates
Narrated by the late Ossie Davis, this program is a fantasy trip through the magic of Christmas. A runaway little girl decides to return to her family after she enters a rundown theater for shelter and encounters an old caretaker (Davis), who guides her on her journey. The caretaker brings the theater to life through various musical performances by singers Jewel, Michael Crawford and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
When to watch on WETA Television »
The WETA Guide to Christmas
Airs on Dec 24 and additional dates
This one-hour WETA TV 26 production presents a host of ideas about how to enjoy and spread Christmas cheer in the Washington area, spotlighting everything from sing-a-longs to the best neighborhood Christmas lights, from onstage performances to children's activities. Explore holiday preparations and decorations throughout the Washington area and visit locations including Union Station, Mount Vernon and the White House.
Go to program website »
WETA holiday special events
Join us this holiday season for special appearances, get-togethers, and activities throughout the Washington area. We look forward to seeing you!
Family Fun Night at Glen Echo Park: December 12
Join WETA at Glen Echo for the park's annual Winter's Eve celebration on December 12 from 6 pm to 9 pm. There'll be ice crafts, hands-on science activities plus a meet-and-greet with Sid from the popular PBS children's series Sid the Science Kid.
Learn more »
Classical WETA Players at area shopping malls
Classical WETA will help bring out the spirit of the season with our very own Classical WETA Players. This group of professional musicians will perform holiday music to entertain shoppers while a Classical WETA promotions team distributes giveaways and station information. Join us at the following area locations:
Gift ideas
Find the perfect gift for everyone on your list by shopping below. Your purchases also support WETA!
WETA TV pledge items
Find DVDs, CDs, mugs, books, and more from the favorite TV shows of family and friends. The items are "thank you" gifts from WETA's current TV pledge drive.
See gift selection »
Classical WETA Holiday CD
The classical music lover on your list will appreciate the 20 holiday selections on this special CD, hand chosen for our listeners! The music evokes the warmth and good will of the season. Order early to ensure holiday delivery. Your purchase supports Classical WETA 90.9 FM.
Listen to the tracks! »
Books as Gifts: 2009 Buying Guide for Kids
Books are truly the gift that keeps on giving! WETA's ReadingRockets.org project offers an annual buying guide with book suggestions for kids of different ages. Take a look and give a book, share a book, and enjoy a book with the children in your lives!
Go to holiday buying guide »
ShopPBS Holiday Gift Center
When you enter ShopPBS through weta.org, you'll receive an extra 15 percent discount on everything you buy AND a portion of your purchase will come back to WETA! To receive the discount, enter the code MEMBER_15 at the checkout. (Please note that the code is case sensitive.) Type in the code in the box entitled "Using a promotional code?" and then click "Apply". A 15 percent discount will then be deducted from your subtotal (excluding shipping charges).
Go to ShopPBS.org »
WETA Box Office
Give the gift of a live performance! Obtain tickets for the best seats in the house at upcoming shows, including the Rockettes, Celtic Woman, and more! Your purchase also supports WETA.
See ticket offers »
WETA Holiday Vault
Stop by and do some of your holiday shopping at WETA's online "Holiday Vault." You'll find CDs, DVDs, and much more from WETA television favorites at very special prices, as well as autographed items not available anywhere else and special gift packages. Every purchase supports WETA.
Go to WETA Holiday Vault »
WETA Newsletter
See the latest issue for new program & event info.
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Fax: 703-998-2898
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