David Hayes to Conduct New York Choral Society Concert at Carnegie Hall, 12/17

The New York Choral Society (NYCS) returns to Carnegie Hall under the baton of Maestro David Hayes on Tuesday, December 17, 2013 to present an inspiring mix of Christmas favorites, old and new.

"This concert is a choral music lover's dream, and the perfect way to celebrate the season," said Mr. Hayes. "I can't wait to hear the wonderful voices of the New York Choral Society let loose that glorious sound in the splendid acoustics of Carnegie Hall."

The concert will open with Verdi's stunning Ave Maria, followed by Respighi's Laud To The Nativity and Finzi's In Terra Pax. The Respighi and Finzi works both focus on the shepherds "abiding in their fields, keeping watch..." and then rushing to the manger to see the Holy Child. While very different, both pieces are extremely beautiful and poignant in their musical treatments of this much-loved story.

Dormi, Jesu, by contemporary composer Abbie Betinis, a cappella setting of a lullaby sung to the infant Jesus. The middle movement of Stephen Paulus' Three Carols of the Nativity also depicts the scene in the manger with a gently rocking lullaby.

The second half of the concert will consist of traditional Christmas carols, arranged for chorus and orchestra by Donald Fraser; in this performance, Heather Johnson as featured soloist will join the 180 voices of the New York Choral Society for a jubilant finale.

For ticket information, call (212) 247-3878 or visit www.nychoral.org or www.carnegiehall.org

Tickets are also available at the Carnegie Hall box office and through CenterCharge 212-247-7800.