FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Nov. 20, 2025
Madison Symphony Orchestra’s “A Madison Symphony Christmas” Holiday Concerts, Carol Sing and Special Event Come to Overture Dec. 5-7
Annual concert features soprano Alexandra LoBianco, bass-baritone Kyle Ketelsen, the Madison Symphony Chorus, Madison Youth Choirs and the Mt. Zion Gospel Choir
UPDATE: The Saturday, 12/6/25 & Sunday,12/7/25 concert is now sold out. Best available seating is on Friday, 12/5/25
Madison, Wis. – The Madison Symphony Orchestra (MSO) celebrates the holiday season with “A Madison Symphony Christmas,” taking place Dec. 5-7 in Overture Hall. Music Director John DeMain leads the MSO in his 32nd and final season as Music Director, joined by renowned soloists Alexandra LoBianco (soprano) and Kyle Ketelsen (bass-baritone). Returning are the Madison Symphony Chorus under the direction of Beverly Taylor, the Madison Youth Choirs led by Artistic Director Michael Ross and the Mt. Zion Gospel Choir directed by Tamera and Leotha Stanley.
The experience starts with caroling in the lobby with the Chorus. Once inside the hall, the program blends treasured classics with festive new selections for all ages to enjoy. Highlights include O Come, O Come Immanuel, O Holy Night and music from Elf and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. There will also be music from Leotha Stanley’s Joy of Christmas, The Spirit of Christmas is Love, and Joy to the World. Also included are Mozart’s Laudate Dominum, Howard Blake’s Walking in the Air, movements from Handel’s Messiah, Rutter’s Gloria and Humperdinck’s Pantomime.
After the concert on Sunday, Dec. 7, participants are invited to attend Out at the Symphony: Holiday Extravaganza. The $55 package includes a discounted ticket to the concert as well as event access. For those who already have a concert ticket, access to the event-only is $35. Concertgoers can enjoy holiday crafts, a hot cocoa bar, treats, a photo booth and an Ugly Holiday Sweater runway competition with prizes. https://madisonsymphony.org/event/out-dec-2025/
In addition to the three performances of “A Madison Symphony Christmas,” a free Carol Sing will take place in Overture Hall on Saturday, December 6th at 11:00 a.m. Principal Organist Greg Zelek with percussionist John Jutsum and oboist Marc Fink will present an exciting variety of holiday music that includes many works where the audience is encouraged to sing along. All ages are welcome. No tickets or reservations are required.
Tickets for “A Madison Symphony Christmas” are available by phone, (608) 258-4141, in-person at the Overture Center Box Office, 201 State Street, or online at https://madisonsymphony.org/christmas.
About Alexandra LoBianco
LoBianco has earned international acclaim for her commanding, dramatic voice and exceptional versatility. She has appeared with major companies including the Wiener Staatsoper – where she debuted as Leonore in Fidelio – the Metropolitan Opera, Seattle Opera, Portland Opera and Maryland Lyric Opera.
About Kyle Ketelsen
Ketelsen is a sought-after artist on the world’s leading opera and concert stages, admired for his riveting stage presence and rich, expressive vocalism. He has performed at the Wiener Staatsoper and Opera National de Paris, Metropolitan Opera, and major concert appearances with orchestras including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra and Lyric Opera of Chicago.
About Beverly Taylor
Under Taylor’s leadership, the Madison Symphony Chorus has established itself as one of the region’s premier vocal ensembles. Their soaring voices anchor Mahler’s monumental “Resurrection” Symphony, providing a powerful and uplifting choral presence.
About Tamera Stanley and Leotha Stanley
Led by Tamera and Leotha Stanley, the Mt. Zion Gospel Choir brings a radiant and soulful power to every performance. They have shaped the choir into an ensemble known for its expressive storytelling, spiritual depth and uplifting sound.
About Michael Ross
Under Ross’ leadership, the Madison Youth Choirs has become one of the nation’s most respected youth choral organizations, known for its commitment to musical excellence and transformative education
About the Madison Symphony Orchestra
The Madison Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 100th Anniversary season in 2025–2026. The MSO has grown to be one of America’s leading regional orchestras, providing Madison and south-central Wisconsin with cultural and educational opportunities to interact with great masterworks and top-tier guest artists from around the world. 2025–2026 marks John DeMain’s 32nd year and final season as Music Director. Learn more at madisonsymphony.org.
The Presenting Sponsor for “A Madison Symphony Christmas” is Lau and Bea Christensen. Major funding is provided by American Printing, Fiore Companies, Inc., Judith Werner, in memory of Stephen Caldwell, Richard and Pamela Reese, in memory of Maurice and Arlene Reese, Peggy and Tom Pyle, the John and Twila Sheskey Charitable Fund, in memory of Jennie Biel Sheskey, and An Anonymous Friend. Additional funding provided by Reinhart Boerner van Deuren s.c., and the Wisconsin Arts Board.
Contact: Peter Rodgers, Director of Marketing
Phone: (608) 260-8680 x226 • Mobile: (415) 713-0235
Email: prodgers@madisonsymphony.org
Web: madisonsymphony.org
MSO 25-26 Symphony Season Press Photos, Orchestra, John DeMain: https://bit.ly/mso25-26press1
MSO 25-26 Symphony Season Press Photos, Concerts: https://bit.ly/mso25-26press2