Johnstown Symphony Orchestra’s "Holiday Pops!” Offers Festive Tradition for Family and Friends
The Johnstown Symphony Orchestra (JSO) warmly invites all to attend their “Holiday Pops!” concert on December 13th at the Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center, with two available shows to choose from: a 3pm matinee, and a 7:30pm evening.
Tickets can be purchased at johnstownsymphony.org or by calling the Box Office at 814-535-6738. Tickets begin at just $10 in our “Pick Your Price” section, with standard seating ranging from $48–54 and premium seating available at $65.
The JSO Chorus, under the direction of Jeffrey L. Webb, and the “Inclined to Sing” Youth Chorus, under the direction of Emily Roy, will take center stage for a heartwarming afternoon and evening of holiday choral masterpieces, joined by the full orchestra in a festive musical celebration.
This Year’s Holiday Pops! Repertoire
This year’s program is packed with music that captures everything we love about the holiday season. Audiences will be swept into the spirit from the very first notes as the JSO fills the Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center with beloved classics and soaring choral moments.
Concert highlights include:
Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride – The ultimate holiday favorite! It’s impossible not to smile when the “horse whinny” rings out and the orchestra gallops to the finish.
Randol Alan Bass’s Gloria – A powerful, cinematic work that brings the full orchestra and chorus together in a triumphant, unforgettable wave of sound.
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas – A timeless classic that evokes warmth, memory, and the beauty of the season.
John Rutter’s Candlelight Carol – One of the most beloved contemporary carols, glowing with peace, tenderness, and exquisite choral writing.
Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus – A show-stopping moment where the entire hall comes alive. Many audience members stand and it’s a tradition that gives goosebumps every year.
Selections from The Many Moods of Christmas – Robert Shaw’s iconic arrangements burst with excitement, grandeur, and joy. Perfect for singing along in your heart.
Hannukah Medley – Featuring JSO Concertmaster Maureen Conlon Gutierrez playing the solo line on violin! The arranger, Lucas Richman, conducts in Maine and is a friend of Maestro Blachly.
Traditional Carols – including O Come, All Ye Faithful and Silent Night. These songs instantly make the holidays feel like home.
A special feature by “Inclined to Sing” – Their performance of Still, Still, Still is guaranteed to be a highlight!
In addition, audiences can look forward to several exciting guest surprises throughout the concert, adding even more sparkle to an already festive program. And of course, no Holiday Pops! would be complete without a special visit from Santa himself, bringing joy to children and adults alike.
The JSO would like to acknowledge its December concert sponsors for making these performances possible: Mr. and Mrs. James and Karen Hargreaves; Whalley Charitable Trust; Dr. Magdi and Karen Azer; Milkie’s Lawn and Landscape; and InFirst Bank.
The JSO also recognizes its Season 97 Leadership Sponsors, who support the orchestra’s full year of operations: 1st Summit Bank, AmeriServ, Concurrent Technologies Corporation, GapVax, and Somerset Trust Company.