Holiday Pops! @ Salem HS

Holiday Pops! @ Salem HS is a sparkling, family‑friendly yuletide celebration that brings together the Michigan Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Nan Washburn, the Harmony Singers of Plymouth under director Kevin Ryan, and the Plymouth First Chancel Choir led by Marcia Van Oyen. Add to that the unforgettable Concerto for Timpani and Strings, Op. 37, performed by Ray Riggs on timpani and a typewriter, and you’ve got a recipe for a holiday tradition that delights all ages. The program opens with Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” followed by a montage of favorite carols—“Carol of the Bells,” “Pat‑a‑Pan,” “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming,” and “The Boar’s Head”—all arranged by Nan Washburn. A spirited Hanukkah Festival arranged by Chris M. Bernotas sets the mood before the joyous rendition of Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” steals the show. The set then flits through the “Final Waltz and Apotheosis” from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, the striking “Concerto for Timpani and Strings, Op. 37” by Ney Rosauro, and musical highlights from beloved classics: Vince Guaraldi and Lee Mendelson’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Robert Sheldon’s “A Most Wonderful Christmas,” Albert Hague’s “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” George Michael’s “Last Christmas,” Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard’s “The Polar Express Suite,” and Leroy Anderson’s “The Typewriter.” The sing‑along canon closes the concert with “Jingle Bells Forever” (James Pierpont & John Philip Sousa), “Joy to the World” and “O Come All Ye Faithful” arranged by Bob Cerulli, “The Christmas Song” by Robert Wells & Mel Tormé, “Feliz Navidad” by José Feliciano, and a triumphant “Hallelujah Chorus” again performed for all to join in. Join this festive, unforgettable holiday extravaganza and experience concert magic for the whole family.