The University Singers and the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia have lifted their voices – virtually – for a season-brightening 2020 Family Holiday Concert, remarkable for its beauty and for the technical coordination needed to put on the production.

President Jim Ryan shared the concert with the University community, along with his best wishes for the holiday season and gratitude for all of the work that students, faculty, and staff put in this semester.

“Every year, the Family Holiday Concert touches our hearts and unites our community. This year is no exception,” Ryan said. “While the program, like many things in 2020, is a bit different, it is just as heartwarming as ever, and it showcases the remarkable talent and resilience of our students and our neighbors in the Charlottesville community.” 

You can view the concert anytime on YouTube. It features archival recordings of past performances and new performances including a virtual choir, solos from members of the symphony and even audience participation on the “12 Days of Christmas” carol – as has long been a tradition in their in-person holiday concerts. The concert includes a wide range of performances to enjoy, from “Carol of the Bells” and “Sleigh Ride” to Hanukkah selections played by Ben Rous on violin and viola.

Michael Slon, director of choral music at UVA, conducted the show. It was sponsored by UVA’s Department of Music with support from the Office of the Provost and Vice Provost for the Arts.

Enjoy the full concert on the University Singers YouTube channel.