Some 18 dates are currently scheduled. Highlights include Handel’s Messiah, a seasonal must, with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Philharmonia Chorus. Soloists including soprano Francesca Chiejina and mezzo-soprano Katie Bray help tell the Christmas story in music (Tues 15 Dec, 7PM)
A family favourite sure to sell out is My Christmas Orchestral Adventures, with classical novelties for youngsters and lots of chance to join in. (Sun 13 Dec, 3PM).
Music unites the generations at the Royal Albert Hall. Photo: Andy Paradise
The festival gets going with a programme of Christmas music performed by the RPO and the Royal Choral Society (Wed 9 Dec, 7:30PM).
And for five days in the run-up to Christmas, the ever-popular carol concerts resume when the RPO under Richard Cooke and the Royal Choral Society sing all the favourites, twice daily (Wun 20 to Wed 23 Dec, 1:30PM and 7:30PM).
With its many entrances and exits and huge auditorium, the RAH has devised a way of making audiences safe under current restrictions. Booking opens 10AM, Fri 2 Oct.
Christmas music at the Royal Albert Hall is an age-old tradition. Photo: Andy Paradise
In reassuring audiences that events will be Covid-safe, the venue admits the performances are not economic. But there is passion in the project. Says CEO Craig Hassall: ‘Although this model is not sustainable with such reduced capacities, we are opening because I firmly believe this is what the country needs.
‘It is an investment into our future – to protect the jobs of our highly skilled staff, to stimulate the local economy and the wider arts ecosystem, and to fulfil significant audience demand.’
That sounds like 'Happy Christmas' to us.
Booking for Christmas music at the Royal Albert Hall opens at 10AM on Friday 2 October. Click here for more details.
| What | Christmas music: live at the Royal Albert Hall |
| Where | Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AP | MAP |
| Nearest tube | South Kensington (underground) |
| When |
09 Dec 20 – 23 Dec 20, Several events, start times and duration vary |
| Price | £15 |
| Website | Click here for more information and booking |