Question 1

How long will the concert last?

Accepted Answer

Concerts typically last 2 hours, including a 20-minute intermission. We include concert run time in our pre-concert messaging and on our individual concert pages.

Question 2

Do I have to dress up?

Accepted Answer

We want you to be comfortable and enjoy yourself, whether that means dressing to the nines or simply pulling out a clean outfit. Wear whatever you think is appropriate for a festive occasion. Most importantly – have fun!

Question 3

Can I bring my kids?

Accepted Answer

We want kids to be exposed to the joy of music, so children 6 years of age and older are welcome to attend our concerts when accompanied by an adult. As a responsible parent or guardian, we know that you will monitor their behavior, and we trust that you will exit the hall if they become restless. We recommend starting younger children out on the first half of a concert and seeing how they do. We have coloring activities in the lobby for itchy fingers!

Question 4

What if I’m late?

Accepted Answer

Of course, things happen! However, patrons who arrive late will not be let into the concert hall until after the conclusion of the first piece on the program. This is so that your entrance won’t interfere with other patron’s listening experience. We highly suggest arriving early so that you can get settled into your seat, read through the program book, and be ready to listen to the music.

Question 5

Will I recognize any of the music?

Accepted Answer

You may recognize more than you expect! Television shows, cartoons, commercials, and movies use symphonic music in their themes and as atmosphere music. Newer compositions often borrow from jazz and pop. We think, though, that it is a better idea to set all of that aside and simply let the music surprise and delight you in ways that you weren't expecting. Trust us. It will.

Date	Time	Venue
Friday, December 19, 2025	7:00 PM	Wentz Concert Hall – Naperville, IL	Get tickets
Saturday, December 20, 2025	7:00 PM	Mandel Hall – Hyde Park, IL	Get tickets

Nigel Hess	A Christmas Overture
Quinn Mason	Christmas Eve
Peter Jaffe	Symph-Hanukkah
Vítězslava Kaprálová	Christmas Prelude
Duke Ellington	Nutcracker Suite (After Tchaikovsky)
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor	Christmas Overture
Robert Xavier Rodríguez	Piñata
Augusta Holmès	La Nuit et l’amour
Leroy Anderson	Sleigh Ride
Gary Parks	Joyeaux Noel! A Holiday Sing-A-Long

Holidays of Hope

Set your heart aglow with the sounds of the season

Overview

TAKE THE JOURNEY. get your tickets today.

Schedule

Program

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Frequently asked questions

Holiday Guest Conductor: Kedrick Armstrong

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