Holiday music is a big part of Classical KC's programming between Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve. Find our full schedule HERE.
As you read, enjoy this 60 minute playlist of fresh, yet familiar, holiday music selected by Classical KC contributor John Schaefer.
Holiday Specials:
Hannukah Memories and Melodies
December 5 at 8 pm
Six prominent artists share memories of Chanukah, and the music the holiday brings to mind. From soothing to surprising, from reverent to rowdy, their musical choices will inspire and delight you. With Broadway actress Tovah Feldshuh, social entrepreneur Aaron Dworkin, cellist Alisa Weilerstein, Sephardic music virtuoso Daphna Mor, conductor Eric Jacobsen, and Yiddish music maven Henry Sapoznik. Hosted by WQXR's Elliott Forrest.
UMKC Conservatory Holiday Special
December 20 at 2 pm, December 23 at 8 pm, December 24 at 1 pm and December 25 at 12 pm
Listen to performances by UMKC Conservatory choirs, orchestra and soloists of holiday favorites and new discoveries that capture the festive spirit of the season, encompassing traditions not only from the United States, but also from Latin America and Europe.
The City Come Again 2026
December 20 at 3 pm, December 23 at 9 pm, December 24 at 2 pm and December 25 at 1 pm
Since 1982 William Jewell College has partnered with Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral to present "The City Come Again" as a gift in music and word to Kansas City. Dr. Ian Coleman hosts this program of students and faculty performing seasonal music and more.
From the Archives - Christmas through the ages
December 19 at 11 am and December 20 at 6 pm
Host Frank Byrne curates a Christmas playlist with music from the 16th to the 20th century. It’s like a musical progressive dinner! Enjoy while you baste, sip, and wrap.
The Christmas Musicians
December 22 at 9 am, December 24 at 11 am & 6 pm and December 25 at 8 am & 5 pm
Lawrence violist Mary Tuven and composer and bassist Charles Kelso Hoag often brought their daughter, Andrea Hoag, to their wintertime performances when she was just a small child. Now all grown up, Hoag brings those decades-old memories to life in her short story “The Christmas Musicians.”
Sunday Baroque Christmas Program
December 20 7 am to 10 am
Sunday Baroque Christmas Program features a sparkling playlist for celebrating the season — beloved Christmas carols dating back to the Renaissance and Baroque eras, joyful Baroque Christmas concertos, and music that evokes the quiet beauty of the Winter Solstice. It’s warm, meaningful, and perfect for creating a sense of calm during the holidays.
Pipedreams - Christmas Program
December 20 at 8pm
Host Michael Barone presents a collection of choral and solo organ works that inspire imaginative images for the Christmas festival.
A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
December 24 at 9 am
An annual and beloved Christmas tradition, "A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols" is an extraordinary and memorable service of word and music from the Chapel of King’s College, Cambridge, England.
St. Olaf Christmas Festival
December 25 10am - 12 pm
The St. Olaf Christmas Festival is a chance for listeners across the country and around the world to participate in one of the nation’s most treasured holiday celebrations. Programming includes sacred choral and instrumental music from many traditions: beloved hymns, classical masterworks, folk songs from around the world, and African-American spirituals.
The Sounds of Kwanzaa
December 27 at 3 pm
In this broadcast, Garrett McQueen offers a background on the history of Kwanzaa and its guiding principles, alongside musical selections that highlight the spirit of the celebration. The show features the compositions of Florence Price, Duke Ellington, Sean O’Loughlin, and special performances by Imani Winds.
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra - New Year's Eve Celebration LIVE
December 31 7 to 10pm
Ring in 2027 as the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra fills Powell Hall with music that speaks to the heart while embracing the hope and joy the new year brings. Samuel Hollister conducts the SLSO for this special concert that is sure to carry you into the New Year with a spirit of renewal, anticipation, and excitement.
New Year's Day from Vienna LIVE
January 1, 2026 at 10 am
The ever popular annual New Year’s Day Concert will be performed by the Vienna Philharmonic under the baton of Maestro Tugan Sokhiev in the Golden Hall of the Musikverein in Vienna. Hosted by WBUR's Lisa Mullins.
