The National Symphony Orchestra of Costa Rica (OSNCR) and the National Symphonic Choir will unite this week to present the traditional Christmas Concerts in Alajuela, Moravia, Santo Domingo de Heredia, and San José.
These presentations are particularly special this holiday season, as they are back after a three-year absence due to COVID restrictions implemented in 2020 and 2021.
Participants will perform a musical program that includes excerpts from “The Nutcracker” by P.I. Tchaikovsky, excerpts from “The Messiah” by G.F. Handel, classics of the time such as “Christmas Festival” and “Sleigh Ride,” as well as works by Costa Rican composers Carlos Guzmán and Sergio Delgado.
On Wednesday, December 7, at 7:30 pm, the first presentation will be held at the Alajuela Cathedral. It will be followed by another concert on Thursday, December 8, at 7:30 pm at the San Vicente Ferrer Parish in Moravia. The next performance will be on Friday, December 9, at 7:30 pm at the Santo Domingo de Heredia Basilica. The final show will be on Sunday, December 11, at 4 pm, at Plaza de la Democracia in San José.
“Our National Symphony Orchestra and the National Symphonic Choir come together for one of the favorite activities of the public: the Christmas concerts. It’s been three years since we were able to host these concerts due to the pandemic. Therefore, this year’s presentations fill us with illusion and motivation. We have prepared a wonderful program, together with the Costa Rican conductor Ramiro Ramirez, which we know will be enjoyed by all those who accompany us in the scheduled free performances,” said Merceditas Sanchez, Director of the National Music Center.
One hundred forty artists will participate in this show, including musicians and choristers, all directed by Costa Rican Ramiro A. Ramírez, who began rehearsals with both groups last November. In addition, soprano María Jesús Castro will be the guest soloist.
Admission to all four concerts is free; however, early arrival is recommended, as space will be limited.
These presentations are a production of the National Music Center with the collaboration of the Santo Domingo de Guzmán Parish, San Vicente Ferrer Parish in Moravia, Producciones Entre Líneas, the Alajuela Cathedral, and the Municipality of San José.
