Annual Christmas Concert

Rev. Msgr. Joseph A. Funaro and The Sacred Music Society of Our Lady Queen of Martyrs present their Annual Christmas Concert at 4 pm on Sunday afternoon, December 11. The Sacred Music Society joins with the Oratorio Society of Queens to perform this concert under the artistic direction of the Music Director of Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, Maestro David Close.

The concert features highlights from the Christmas portion of Handel's "Messiah." The performance features Geraldine McMillian, soprano, Richard Slade, tenor and Thomas Stallone, bass-baritone with the Orchestral Arts Ensemble of Queens.

The second half of the concert features all the beloved Christmas songs of the season: "Hark the Herald Angels," "Ding, Dong Merrily on High," "The Little Drummer Boy," "The Virgin Mary had a Baby Boy" "O Come, All Ye Faithful" and many more. A highlight and beloved favorite for Queens' audiences will be by American composer, Pietro Yon who was the organist of St Patrick's Cathedral in New York City, entitled "Gesù bambino" in celebration of the 125th anniversary of the composer's birth. The beautiful sicilienne evokes the rocking of a cradle in this tender song in honor of the Christ-child born in a stable at Bethlehem inviting all of us to come and adore Him.

The concert is a much anticipated event at the church as parishioners and friends begin their preparations for the Christmas season. It is an annual tradition that brings the whole community together as the entire audience joins in singing their favorite Christmas carols with the chorus and full orchestra!

The concert is performed in the church which is located on Ascan Avenue and Queens Boulevard. Tickets are $20 and children, 12 and under accompanied by an adult, are free. For additional information, please call Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Rectory at 718-268-6251.