Comfort & Joy

Welcome to “Comfort & Joy,” the stunning concert film that celebrates the height of holiday cheer with a star‑studded program and memorable collaborations. Under the baton of conductor Eugene Dowdy, the Symphony of the Hills leads the audience through a vibrant winter programme, while cellist Audrey Jellett delivers powerful solos, and the Hill Country Chorale, led by director Claire Rabson, adds a rich choral dimension. The performance opens with the masterful **Ar­cangelo Corelli – Christmas Concerto**, one of the first Baroque pieces written for string orchestra. The joyous atmosphere continues as a thrilling orchestral mash‑up of **Antonio Vivaldi – Winter Concerto** and the traditional **“O Hanukkah”** (arranged by Tim Berens) takes the stage. Rimsky‑Korsakov’s rousing **Polonaise from “Christmas Eve”** follows, showcasing his brilliant melodic line. The first half concludes with a striking solo from Juror Audrey Jellett, who interprets **Ernest Bloch – Prayer from Jewish Life** in a sonorous, heartfelt manner. The second half is a wonderful collaboration with the Hill Country Chorale. Together, they perform the iconic John Williams score from **Home Alone: Three Holiday Songs**, re‑imagining the film’s music for a live audience. The set then moves to the ever‑popular **Robert Shaw – Many Moods of Christmas: Suite 3**, a collection of Christmas melodies collected and arranged by the legendary chorus master. The finale is a soaring, communal celebration of **Leroy Anderson – A Christmas Festival**, sung by the chorus with the dancing participation of the audience. This concert film brings the magic of an annual Christmas event to your screen, featuring world‑class performances, surprises, and community spirit. Experience the symphonic playlist of home‑grown talent and beloved holiday classics—and feel the true “Comfort & Joy” of the season. For details and tickets, or to watch the full performance, visit the link below.