For millennia, people all over the world have recognized the winter solstice as an important astronomical occurrence and celebrated through rituals to ward off the dark and cold, until the return of the sun. Centuries-old solstice traditions continue to influence the holidays we celebrate now.

The music we'll be presenting for this concert comes from a broad array of cultural and spiritual traditions, including several wonderful examples of syncretism between cultures. The includes works from First Nations composers Alex Vollant and Russell Wallace, a new work by Reena Esmail, based on the Raag Ahir Bhairav, along with Leonardo Leo's baroque Magnificat, Salamone Rossi's setting of Shir Lama'alot and many others.

Join us on the Winter solstice as we present this program of contemplative and joyous music and poetry from solemn and celebratory rituals around the world!