Windham Philharmonic brings the power of Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony, and celebrates the season with musical treats of tenderness and laughter.

The Windham Philharmonic invites you to its third annual “Beethoven in December — with Holiday Treats” concert at the Latchis Theatre on Sunday, December 8 at 7 PM.
This cherished local tradition pairs the energy and nobility of a Beethoven symphony with music of fantasy, compassion, and sparkling good humor.

The program opens with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 in A major, often called the “apotheosis of the dance.” From its noble first chords to the ecstatic whirl of its finale, the Seventh embodies joy as movement — a fitting celebration of vitality and community in the darkening days of December.

After intermission, the orchestra turns to Humperdinck’s Overture to Hänsel und Gretel, glowing with the warmth and wonder of childhood; Ponchielli’s “Dance of the Hours” from La Gioconda, famous for its rhythmic sparkle and comic exuberance; and Berlioz’s “Shepherds’ Farewell” from L’Enfance du Christ, an exquisite miniature of tenderness and grace.
The concert concludes, as always, with Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride” — a joyous dash through orchestral snow, sleigh bells, snorting horses ,and all.

“This concert,” says Music Director Hugh Keelan, “is about belonging and generosity — Beethoven’s unstoppable vitality meeting Berlioz’s compassion and Anderson’s laughter, with much fantasy and scintillation in between. It reminds us that joy is in our nature, and profoundly satisfying to experience in community. And let joy itself be our own vigorous protest!”

Admission is by donation at the door; information is at windhamphilharmonic.org.
Join us for a December tradition of warmth, brilliance, and shared celebration.