“The Joy of Christmas” perfectly describes the festive concert presented by the Cathedral Choral Society for the past 65 years. Once again, the magnificent Washington National Cathedral provides the setting that unites ancient and contemporary traditions.

The program features solos on the organ and the carillon by Scott Dettra and Edward Nassor respectively, guest appearances by the Washington Symphonic Brass and the Children’s Chorus of Washington, and the 200-voice choir conducted by J. Reilly Lewis. In addition to the beloved traditional carols and seasonal works, two commissioned carols were composed in memory of Canon Emeritus Richard Wayne Dirksen, the Cathedral’s former organist-choirmaster and precentor. One was written by jazz legend Dave Brubeck, the other by British composer John Tavener.