NEWSLETTER
December 19-20 at Arthur Zankel Music Center
Saratoga Springs, NY (October 8, 2026) — Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) announces the return of its popular Sounds of the Season holiday series from December 19–20, featuring internationally acclaimed brass ensemble Canadian Brass with Wonderful Time of the Year (DEC 20); Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center performing Bach’s Complete Brandenburg Concertos (DEC 19), and a new family program, Nutcracker Notes with Mozart for Munchkins (DEC 19).
“As we celebrate SPAC’s 60th anniversary year, ‘Sounds of the Season’ is a fitting reminder of the joy, connection and sense of community that have defined this special place for six decades. From introducing the next generation to the magic of live performance to welcoming back extraordinary artists and beloved traditions, we look forward to sharing this festive weekend with our community as we bring this milestone year to a celebratory close,” says Elizabeth Sobol, Chief Executive Officer of Saratoga Performing Arts Center.
Highlighting the series is Canadian Brass with Wonderful Time of the Year returning for the first time since 2022. For more than 50 years, the celebrated ensemble has captivated audiences worldwide with its virtuosity, humor and signature showmanship. The holiday program pairs original arrangements and distinctive interpretations with seasonal favorites, including “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Jingle Bell Rock” and “Christmastime Is Here.”
Making their SPAC debut, Mozart for Munchkins invites young audiences and their families into the magical world of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker through an interactive performance blending classical and jazz interpretations of the beloved score, live music and dance. Nutcracker Notes will also feature festive, hands-on activities designed to make a day at the concert hall an experience for the whole family.
Back by popular demand, Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center will present Johann Sebastian Bach’s six Brandenburg Concertos in their entirety on December 19. A cherished holiday tradition at Lincoln Center and now in Saratoga, the Brandenburgs are described by The New Yorker as “joyous, effervescent, and yes, festive.”
The announcement continues SPAC’s expansion into year-round programming, with all three performances taking place at Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College while the Spa Little Theater undergoes renovation.
The programming is as follows:
Nutcracker Notes with Mozart for Munchkins
December 19 | 11 AM | Arthur Zankel Music Center
Nutcracker Notes invites families into the magical world of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker through an intimate, interactive performance blending classical and jazz interpretations of the score. A featured ballerina brings the music to life through expressive movement, dancing in close proximity to the audience so children can observe gesture, storytelling, and musicality up close. Live musicians guide families through familiar melodies, encouraging gentle participation through singing, swaying, clapping, or simple guided movement. Following the performance, children will have the opportunity to meet the musicians and explore the instruments.
Families are encouraged to arrive early for Nutcracker-themed arts and crafts, hot cocoa and other festive activities.
Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center: The Complete Brandenburg Concertos Saturday, December 19| 5 PM | Arthur Zankel Music Center
Back by popular demand, Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center will bring Johann Sebastian Bach’s six Brandenburg Concertos, performed in their entirety. Heralded by The New Yorker as “joyous, effervescent, and yes, festive,” the Brandenburg Concertos showcase Bach’s remarkable imagination and the interplay of instruments in one of classical music’s most enduring collections.
Canadian Brass: Wonderful Times of the Year
Sunday, December 20 | 3 PM | Arthur Zankel Music Center
For more than five decades, Canadian Brass has been one of the world’s most recognized brass ensembles, celebrated for its brilliant musicianship, engaging wit and top-notch showmanship. In Wonderful Time of the Year, the ensemble brings its signature sound to beloved holiday classics through original arrangements and fresh interpretations of seasonal favorites, including “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Jingle Bell Rock” and “Christmastime Is Here.”
“Nothing proclaims celebration and festivity like the sound of brass instruments. And if those instruments are played by Canadian Brass, there is even greater cause for celebration,” writes the Toronto Star.
Tickets will be available for purchase on October 9 for members (tiered by level), and on October 16 for the general public. Visit spac.org for additional details.
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Photo: Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center - Copyright Tristan Cook
Saratoga Performing Arts Center
Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), located in the historic resort town of Saratoga Springs in upstate New York, is one of America’s most prestigious outdoor amphitheaters. Its exquisite setting in a 2,400-acre park preserve surrounded by hiking trails, geysers, and natural mineral springs draws lovers of arts, culture and nature for performances by resident companies New York City Ballet, The Philadelphia Orchestra, The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, the Saratoga Jazz Festival, and concerts by Live Nation. SPAC also hosts imaginative programming such as Caffè Lena @ SPAC and initiatives in culinary, literary, healing and visual arts.
SPAC is a 501c3 charitable organization. Donations and proceeds from fundraising events benefit the Center’s thriving education program, community outreach efforts, and the vibrancy of its programming. For more information visit spac.org.