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This concert opens with a fresh take on the story of resurrection with lush layers of colorful sound evoking a cinematic feel. Resurrexit by Mason Bates will take you on a mystical pilgrimage with shimmering exotic tonalities that give way to contemplation and dramatic stirrings of rebirth. César Franck’s Symphonic Variations is a masterpiece of collaboration between piano and orchestra celebrating the interplay of poetic musical voices. Christopher Taylor’s virtuosic artistry is a perfect fit for this intimate and lyrical work. Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 is one of the most profound and transformative works ever. Written over six years, it journeys from a somber funeral march to a luminous vision of resurrection and renewal. Mahler once described this symphony as “my whole life in one work.” Themes of struggle, hope, and transcendence will bring us to a glorious reassurance of light in our lives.

This spectacular annual celebration has become a joyful way to begin the holiday season in our community for concertgoers of all ages. It’s no wonder that Maestro DeMain is bringing two of his favorite soloists, soprano Alexandra LoBianco and bass-baritone Kyle Ketelsen, to share their gifts, for his 32nd season. The Madison Symphony Chorus, Madison Youth Choirs, and the Mt. Zion Gospel Choir join us to bring this special concert to life. You’ll experience the same blend of familiar and new once again this year. The experience starts with caroling in the lobby with the Chorus before each performance to set the mood. Bring your family and friends to share this beloved Madison tradition with us!

Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony is often described as “fate knocking at the door.” The symphony reflects his personal struggle with adversity and his triumph over despair — bursting with vitality, defiance, and an unshakable belief in the human spirit — transcending its time and place to become a symbol and voice of resilience, freedom, and hope. Looking to the future, the MSO has commissioned composer Jake Heggie and librettist Gene Scheer to create a world premiere work in celebration of our 100th Anniversary. EARTH: A Choral Symphony will celebrate our beautiful planet and humanity’s place on it. Composed in four movements, the piece explores themes of truth and possibility, with each movement touching on a different aspect of the wonder of Earth and our place in its story. John DeMain and the Madison Symphony Orchestra, famed Met Opera soprano Ailyn Pérez, and three choruses, will weave together elements of the story in these world premiere performances. We invite you to witness the birth of this dramatic new work that will speak of our Earth, the vibrant place we share together.