2025 Christmas concert celebrates talent and tradition

Ursuline ushered in the holiday season with its highly anticipated annual Christmas concert on Tuesday, Dec. 16. Family and friends filled the Tully Family Auditorium to enjoy an evening of Christmas classics and contemporary favorites performed by students across grade levels.

Students showcased their talents through singing, instrumental performance, and dance, with ensembles collaborating to create a memorable program. The concert reflected months of preparation and highlighted both the dedication of the students and faculty and the central role of Ursuline’s performing arts programs within the school community.

The evening began with the induction ceremony for the Tri-M Music Honor Society, recognizing students for their commitment to Ursuline’s music programs and academic excellence. The ceremony was led by President Anna Fahy ’26, Vice President Nicole Comuniello ’26, and Secretary Mia Brown ’26. Following the induction of 30 new members, the Christmas concert began.

The Middle School Choir, directed by Rosemary Clarizio ’89, performed a mix of familiar selections such as “Wenceslas Canon” and “Gonna Take You on a Sleigh Ride,” alongside lesser-known pieces from global traditions. These included “Keresemesi Odun De O,” sung in the Yoruba language of Nigeria, and the French carol “D’où Viens-Tu, Bergère.”

Throughout the performance, middle school students had opportunities to shine as soloists and instrumentalists. “Wenceslas Canon” featured bell players Antonietta Cuono ’30 and Gabrielle Desir ’32, finger cymbals by Gianna Durso ’31, and drums by Magnolia Beelitz ’32.

A standout moment of the program was “Jazz Waltz of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” a reimagining of the Tchaikovsky original that accompanied a ballet performance by Nicole Recine ’30.

The High School Winds and High School Strings, conducted by Kelly Gentry, performed selections including Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Edelweiss” and the Christmas favorite “Do You Hear What I Hear.” The pieces highlighted the lyrical, romantic qualities of the wind and string ensembles.

The Concert Choir and Chamber Choir, conducted by Sylvain Falipou-Karkari, also delivered strong performances of seasonal favorites. The Chamber Choir’s rendition of “Christmas Mem’ries” featured a solo section by Laura Sanchez ’28 and Allison Vincitore ’28.

“It was a beautiful experience being able to sing right next to my best friend,” Sanchez said. “I’m glad we were able to evoke the feeling of the Christmas spirit through the art of song.”

"I am glad we were able to evoke the feeling of the Christmas spirit through the art of song."

- Laura Sanchez '28

The Advanced Orchestra, also conducted by Gentry, closed the program with “Music from Home Alone” by John Williams, followed by the final selection, Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” As the familiar tune filled the auditorium, audience members joined in the festive spirit, some even dancing in their seats. The directors concluded the evening with holiday wishes as students reunited with their families and friends.

The 2025 Christmas Concert reflected months of preparation by the Performing Arts Department and the students who dedicated their time and talent. The department’s commitment and collaboration were evident throughout the evening, making the concert a joyful celebration of the season.