Music of the Baroque presents 'Holiday Brass & Choral' magic

Each December, Music of the Baroque brings a beloved tradition to Chicago-area audiences: its Holiday Brass & Choral Concerts. This year, the 2025‑2026 season, the program takes on new energy under the baton of guest conductor Nicholas Kraemer.

With a mix of voices and brass, the concerts promise a rich tapestry of sacred and celebratory music, ranging from medieval plainsong to Renaissance polyphony and Baroque fanfares, composed by masters such as Giovanni Gabrieli, Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Josquin des Prez, Michael Praetorius, and others. These concerts are part of the ensemble’s 55th season, a milestone reflecting decades of commitment to bringing early music to Chicago. 

When & Where: December 2025 Concert Schedule

Here are the 2025 dates and venues for the Holiday Brass & Choral Concerts:

What to Expect: Music & Atmosphere

The program blends sacred chants, Renaissance polyphony, and jubilant brass works, offering an immersive journey from the medieval era through to the Baroque. Expect stirring choruses, rich harmonies and the majestic resonance of brass instruments in some of the area's most beautiful architectural spaces, a hallmark of the Music of the Baroque’s holiday tradition. This festive atmosphere makes the concerts ideal for a wide audience: from early‑music aficionados to those simply looking for a meaningful seasonal experience.

Why This Year Is Special

• It’s the debut of Nicholas Kraemer leading the holiday series, adding fresh interpretation to the long‑standing tradition.
• The repertoire’s range, from medieval chant to Baroque brass, offers a rare chance to hear centuries of sacred music in a single program.
• Multiple venues across Chicago-area suburbs (River Forest, Winnetka, Evanston), plus an on-demand streaming option,  give flexibility for different audiences.

How to Attend

Tickets and on-demand passes are available now via the Music of the Baroque website. (baroque.org) Given past popularity, seats tend to sell out so it’s best to reserve soon if you want to attend in person.

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