NOTE: All times are Eastern Time unless otherwise noted, and street addresses for venues are Toronto locations unless otherwise specified. If no city is shown in the listing, the event takes place in Toronto.
Listings are based on information sent to WholeNote in advance by event presenters. Contact presenters for concert updates. The deadline for the next Weekly Update #276 (covering Dec 18-28) is Thu Dec 11 at 6pm.
This update includes detailed daily listings for the period Thur Dec 11 - Thu Dec 18 and, as a bonus, brief advance listings for Fri Dec 19 - Sun Dec 21. For detailed advance listings on all events in our database, use our searchable online JustAsk feature.
Presenters of previously submitted listings are also asked to advise us by that date of any changes or cancellations. Send all submissions to John Sharpe at listings@thewholenote.com.
You can subscribe to this weekly update at www.thewholenote.com/newsletter.
DETAILED DAILY LISTINGS, Thur Dec 11 - Thu Dec 18
Dec 11 12:00_noon: Canadian Opera Company. Instrumental Series: Rising Stars. Students of The Royal Conservatory’s Taylor Academy. Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre, Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, 145 Queen St. W. www.coc.ca/freeconcerts. Free. Please check website for any programming updates.
Dec 11 2:00: Toronto Symphony Orchestra. TSO Holiday Pops. Mikaela Bennett, vocalist; Sarah Hicks, conductor. Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe St. www.tso.ca or 416-598-3375. Call or visit website for ticket information. Also at 7:30pm.
Dec 11 7:00: Caliban Arts Theatre. An Evening of Caribbean Jazz Fusion: Eddie Bullen, Etric Lyons & Guests. CONTXT by Trane, 254 Lansdowne Ave. www.tickets.contxtbytrane.com/events/contxtbytrane/1932538. $25/$15(adv). Also Dec 18.
Dec 11 7:30: Sinfonia Toronto. Baroque and Beyond - Holiday Treats. Mendelssohn: Double Concerto for Violin and Piano in d; Corelli: Concerto Grosso Op.6 No.8 "Christmas Concerto"; Vivaldi: Sinfonia from L'incoronazione di Dario; Larry Strachan: Lament for Souls of Sauteurs (Ontario premiere); Handel: Overture and Pifa from Messiah; Jenkins: Palladio Suite. The Ezra Duo: Jacob Clewell, violin; Sasha Bult-Ito, piano; Nurhan Arman, conductor. Trinity St. Paul's United Church. Jeanne Lamon Hall, 427 Bloor St. W. www.sinfoniatoronto.com. $52; $40(ages 60+); $20(st).
Dec 11 7:30: Toronto Symphony Orchestra. TSO Holiday Pops. See 2pm.
Dec 11 8:00: Flato Markham Theatre. Classic Albums Live Performs The Beatles - Revolver. 171 Town Centre Blvd., Markham. 905-305-7469 or www.flatomarkhamtheatre.ca.
Dec 11 8:00: Royal Conservatory of Music. Orchestrated: Cory Wong. Cory Wong, guitar. With The Legendary DJ Blackcatt in an exclusive post-show set. Royal Conservatory of Music - TELUS Centre - Koerner Hall, 273 Bloor St. W. 416-408-0208 or www.rcmusic.com/performance. From $70.
Dec 12 12:00_noon: Music at First-St. Andrew's United Church. Friday Noon Advent Recital No. 3: Music for Advent. Laudamus Bells, Richard Frank, director. First-St. Andrew's United Church, 350 Queens Ave., London. 519-679-8182 or www.fsaunited.com/music-concerts. Freewill donation.
Dec 12 4:00: Aurora United Church. Carols by Candlelight. Aurora United Church Chancel Choir; Aurora United Church Handbell Ensembles; The Aldbury Gardens Brass Quintet; Wesley Bells, violin. 79 Victoria St., Aurora. 905-727-1935. Freewill offering. Also 7:30pm.
Dec 12 7:00: Canadian Sinfonietta. Canadian Sinfonietta Youth Orchestra Winter Concert. J. Strauss II: Overture to Die Fledermaus; Schubert: Symphony No.8 in b D.759 “Unfinished”; Sarasate: Navarra for 2 violins, Weber: Bassoon Concerto F Op.75 (J. 127). Agricola Finnish Lutheran Church, 25 Old York Mills Rd. www.canadiansinfonietta.com. $50; $45(ages 45 and up); $40(ages 6-17).
Dec 12 7:00: St. Michael's Choir School. REJOICE! Jubilee Celebration – 60 Years at Massey Hall - Annual Christmas Concert. Massey Hall, 178 Victoria St. www.tickets.mhrth.com/7112/7191. $70. Also Dec 13.
Dec 12 7:00: Toronto Welsh Male Voice Choir. Christmas Concert. Christmas favourites old and new, audience singalongs, and Welsh songs. In support of the Stephen Lewis Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign. More than 35 choristers singing in 4-part harmony with Matthew Coons, accompanist. Calvin Presbyterian Church, 26 Delisle Ave. 416-489-9094 or 416-932-9224. $40.
Dec 12 7:30: Aurora United Church. Carols by Candlelight. See 4pm.
Dec 12 7:30: Diapente Renaissance Vocal Quintet. The Diapente Book of Carols 3. A festive assortment of Renaissance & Medieval carols, motets and songs, with an emphasis on French and English works. Jane Fingler, soprano; Peter Koniers, countertenor; Alexander Cappellazzo, tenor; Jonathan Stuchbery, tenor & plucked strings; Martin Gomes, bass. St. Thomas's Anglican Church (Toronto), 383 Huron St. 514-378-2558 or Diapente Book of Carols 3. $30(Regular); $20(Discounted).
Dec 12 7:30: Elmer Iseler Singers. Handel's Messiah. Leslie Fagan, soprano; Catherine Wyn-Rogers, mezzo; Colin Ainsworth, tenor; Doug MacNaughton, bass; Elmer Iseler Singers; Amadeus Choir; VIVA Chamber Singers; and Orchestra; Lydia Adams, conductor. Yorkminster Park Baptist Church, 1585 Yonge St. www.elmeriselersingers.com/events/handels-messiah-2025 or 416-217-0537. $60; $55(sr); $40(under 30).
Dec 12 7:30: Heliconian Hall. Lovesick! - Romance and Heartbreak in Classical Music. Through storytelling and music by Satie, Bonis, Liszt and others, pianist Sarah Hagen explores the love stories (good and bad!) of some of her favourite composers. Sarah Hagen, piano. 35 Hazelton Ave. 416-454-2363. $30; $15(st/arts workers).
Dec 12 7:30: Music at St. Andrew's. On This Shining Night: An Evening of Music for the Soul. Hear familiar favourites such as "Silent Night" & "We Wish You a Merry Christmas". A benefit for the St Andrew's Refugee Sponsorship Outreach Program. St Andrew's Gallery Choir; Dan Bickle, piano & organ; Jordan Klapman, piano. St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, 73 Simcoe St. 416-593-5600 x220 or www.standrewstoronto.org. $25. Available through Eventbrite or at the door.
Dec 12 7:30: One Voice Singers. 'Tis the Season for Singing. With audience carolling. Charles White, director; Jackie Crawford, accompanist. St. Paul's Anglican Church, 59 Toronto St. S., Uxbridge. www.onevoicesingers.org. $25; Free(under 10). Also Dec 13(3pm).
Dec 12 8:00: Brampton On Stage. This Is Brampton - Afrobeats: Motion & Vibes. Celebrate African culture in an electrifying fusion of music, dance, and pure energy. Rose Theatre, 1 Theatre Ln., Brampton. 905-874-2800 or www.tickets.brampton.ca. $20.
Dec 12 8:00: Flato Markham Theatre. Broadsway Featuring Heather Bambrick - The Most Wonderful Time, Maybe. 171 Town Centre Blvd., Markham. 905-305-7469 or www.flatomarkhamtheatre.ca.
Dec 12 8:00: Roy Thomson Hall/St. Andrew's College. An Andrean Christmas. Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe St. www.tickets.mhrth.com or 416-598-3375. From $70.
Dec 13 2:00: 16 Chairs Vocal Ensemble. Ceremony of Carols. A debut concert. Britten: A Ceremony of Carols Op.28 and other Christmas songs. 16-member women's vocal ensemble accompanied by pianist and harpist. Hugh's Room Live - Green Sanderson Hall, 296 Broadview Ave. 647-347-4769. $20.
Dec 13 2:00: Registry Theatre. A Big Band Christmas. Heather Bambrick with Big Band Theory. Registry Theatre, 122 Frederick St., Kitchener. www.registrytheatre.com or 519-578-1570. $40. Also Dec 13(8pm) & 14(3pm).
Dec 13 2:00: Scarborough Harmony Chorus. Snow Day - An A Cappella Christmas. An afternoon of festive harmony, sweet treats, and handcrafted treasures at our bake and craft sale. Scarborough Bluffs United Church, 3739 Kingston Rd., Scarborough. Visit Snow Day. $25.
Dec 13 2:30: Les Voix du Coeur Vocal Ensemble. A Holiday Concert in Support of Francophone Seniors. In support of Centres d'Accueil Héritage (CAH). With traditional Holiday songs, lively melodies with Santa as well as exclusive sneak peeks from our big show next May. Paroisse du Sacré-Coeur, 381 Sherbourne St. 416-843-4239 / evlesvoixducoeur@gmail.com / www.lesvoixducoeur.com. Free.
Dec 13 2:30: Live!@WestPlains>. The Barrel Boys - Bluegrass Christmas. Nathan Smith, fiddle; Rob McLaren, banjo; Ben Wright, guitar; Kyle Kirkpatrick, dobro; Tim O’Reilly, bass. West Plains United Church, 549 Plains Rd. W., Burlington. 905-320-4989 or westplainsconcerts@gmail.com or www.westplains.ca/events. $35(VIP Front Pew); $35/$30(adv); $20(ages 16 & under); $20(Livestream video). Ticket includes access to concert video for 14 days following the concert.
Dec 13 3:00: Kokoro Singers. Wintersong. SATB chorus; Laura Pin, piano. St. James Anglican Church, 520 Ellis Rd., Cambridge. Visit Wintersong. $20; $15(sr/st); Free(under 12).
Dec 13 3:00: One Voice Singers. 'Tis the Season for Singing. See Dec 12(7:30pm).
Dec 13 4:00: Kirtan Culture Initiative. An Evening of Musical Mantras - Holiday Edition. Music Therapy Centre, 1175 Bloor St. W. 416-616-5136 or www.kirtanculture.com. $17.55.
Dec 13 4:00: Mississauga Symphony Orchestra. A Merry Little Christmas: A Concert for Young Families. Guest Artists: Marina Salis & Matthew Black. Living Arts Centre Auditorium, 4141 Living Arts Dr., Mississauga. 905-306-6000. $25. Also 7:30pm.
Dec 13 5:00: St. Elizabeth Scola Cantorum and Children’s Choir. Christmas Concert. St. Elizabeth of Hungary Roman Catholic Church, 432 Sheppard Ave. E. 416-971-9754. Suggested freewill offering - $20. Reception to follow.
Dec 13 6:30: Christ Church, Chapel Royal, Tyendinaga. Festival of Advent Lessons and Carols. Choral works by Armstrong, Goldschmidt, Goudimel, Hancock, Mendelssohn, Ord, Vaughan Williams, and Willan. Trinitas Singers; Jeffrey Moellman, director & organ. 52 South Church St., Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. 613-985-2224. Free-will offering to benefit the Christ Church Restoration Fund.
Dec 13 7:00: Georgian Bay Symphony. Home for the Holidays. A full orchestra plus a choir is the best way to celebrate the Yuletide season and you have a chance to join our very popular carol singalong. Guests: Shoreline Chorus. East Ridge Community School, 1550 8th St. E., Owen Sound. 519-372-0212. $41.
Dec 13 7:00: Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber Music Society. Flavius Wagner, Guitar. Bach: Violin in a BWV 1003; Ponce: Sonata III; Berkeley: Sonatina for Solo Guitar Op.51; Guastavino: Sonata No.1. Keffer Memorial Chapel, Wilfrid Laurier University, 75 University Ave. W., Waterloo. www.ticketscene.ca/kwcms. $25; $10(st).
Dec 13 7:00: St. Michael's Choir School. REJOICE! Jubilee Celebration – 60 Years at Massey Hall - Annual Christmas Concert. See Dec 12.
Dec 13 7:00: Univox Choir. Where the Stars Meet the Snow. Ola Gjeilo: Northern Lights; Sydney Guillaume: Ansanm Ansanm; Traditional (arr. Andrew Balfour): Coventry Carol; Elaine Hagenberg: Illuminare; Frances Farrell: Winter Proverbs; and other works. Malcolm Cody MacFarlane, conductor. Christ Church Deer Park, 1570 Yonge St. www.universe.com/starsmeetsnow or www.voxchoirs.com. From $25 with a $10 donation to the choir.
Dec 13 7:30: Aurora Cultural Centre. Allison Lupton’s Celtic Christmas. Aurora Town Square - Davide De Simone Performance Hall, 50 Victoria St., Aurora. 365-500-3313 or www.auroraculturalcentre.ca. $55; $15(st).
Dec 13 7:30: Brampton On Stage. The Rose Orchestra: Winter Carnival. Join the Rose Orchestra and Brampton Children’s Chorus for a joyful Winter Carnival filled with festive cheer, classic melodies, and the magical spirit of the holiday season. Rose Theatre, 1 Theatre Ln., Brampton. 905-874-2800 or www.tickets.brampton.ca. From $15.
Dec 13 7:30: Chorus York. Choral Noel. Zelenka: Magnificat in D; Gibbons: This Is the Record of John; and works by Sullivan, Berlioz, King Henry VIII; and works by Canadian composers including new arrangements of old favourites and singalong carols. Richmond Hill Presbyterian Church, 10066 Yonge St., Richmond Hill. www.chorusyork.ca/concerts or 905-884-7922. $25; Free(12 yr & under with ID).
Dec 13 7:30: Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra. 'Tis the Season. Hamilton Children's Choir; Hamilton Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln., Hamilton. www.hpo.org/event/tis-the-season From $20. 6:30pm: Pre-concert talks.
Dec 13 7:30: Mississauga Symphony Orchestra. A Merry Little Christmas: A Concert for All Ages. Guest Artists: Marina Salis & Matthew Black. Living Arts Centre Auditorium, 4141 Living Arts Dr., Mississauga. 905-306-6000. From $25. Also 4pm.
Dec 13 7:30: Niagara Symphony Orchestra. Home for the Holidays. A concert filled with favourite carols performed by orchestra and choir. Stephanie Park, soprano；Chris Blem, tenor. FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre - Partridge Hall, 250 St. Paul St., St. Catharines. www.niagarasymphony.com or 1-855-515-0722. From $24. Also Dec 14(2:30pm).
Dec 13 7:30: Salvation Army. Christmas with The Salvation Army. Benjamin William Hastings, singer & songwriter. Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe St. www.tickets.mhrth.com/7141/7142. From $35.
Dec 13 7:30: St. James Cathedral. Messiah by G. F. Handel. Choir of St. James Cathedral; Chapel Choir of Trinity College, U. of T., and Orchestra; Maeve Palmer, soprano; Hillary Tufford, mezzo; Bud Roach, tenor; Clarence Frazer, baritone. Cathedral Church of St. James, 106 King St. E. 416-364-7865 or www.stjamescathedral.ca/messiah2025. $45.
Dec 13 7:30: Stratford Concert Choir. Messiah. Stratford Symphony Orchestra; Alexander Cann, conductor. Avondale United Church, 194 Avondale Ave., Stratford. Visit Stratford Symphony Orchestra. $45; $20(st); $10(child). Also Dec 14(3pm).
Dec 13 7:30: The Annex Singers. Radiant Dawn. Poulenc: Gloria; and other works. Melanie Conly, soprano; Stephen Boda, organ; Maria Case, artistic director. Grace Church on-the-Hill, 300 Lonsdale Rd. www.annexsingers.com. From $15. LIVE & STREAMED.
Dec 13 7:30: Toronto Metropolitan University Concert Choir. Gloria: A Winter Celebration. Vivaldi: Gloria; and works by Handel and other composers. Also, Hanukkah and solstice songs and a traditional Catalan carol. Jennifer McCallum, soprano & section lead; Tara Smylie, mezzo & section lead; J. Rigzin Tute, music director. Calvin Presbyterian Church, 26 Delisle Ave. 416-979-5103 x 555103. $35; Free(ages under 10).
Dec 13 8:00: Alliance Française de Toronto. Éphémère. Manela: Marie Neige Lavigne, Marin St-Pierre Paiement, Jean Félix Mailloux, Aaron Dollman. Alliance Français de Toronto - Spadina Theatre, 24 Spadina Rd. www.alliance-francaise.ca. $18; $16/sr/st); $15(AFT loyalty card); $12(ages 5-12); Free (ages under 5).
Dec 13 8:00: Flato Markham Theatre. Serena Ryder: Merry Myths Tour. 171 Town Centre Blvd., Markham. 905-305-7469 or www.flatomarkhamtheatre.ca.
Dec 13 8:00: Registry Theatre. A Big Band Christmas. See Dec 13(2pm). Also Dec 14(3pm).
Dec 14 10:00am: Christ Church Deer Park. Advent Lessons and Carols Service. With scripture, prayer, choral music, and hymns uniting our traditional and contemporary ensembles. 1570 Yonge St. 416-920-5211 or www.christchurchdeerpark.org. Free. Everyone welcome. Donations to support Christ Church Deer Park are appreciated.
Dec 14 2:00: Flato Markham Theatre. A Swingin' Christmas with Toronto All Star Big Band. 171 Town Centre Blvd., Markham. 905-305-7469 or www.flatomarkhamtheatre.ca. From $59.
Dec 14 2:00: HCA Dance + Theatre. Performing Arts Sunday Series (PASS): Seiler Trio: Celebrating the Holidays, Together. Hamilton Conservatory for the Arts - Black Box Theatre, 126 James St. S., Hamilton. 905-528-4020 or www.hcadancetheatre.com. From $35.
Dec 14 2:00: Toronto Children's Chorus. Songs of the Season: Nostalgic Movie Moments. Familiar songs from classic holiday movies, including "Let it Go" from Frozen; "Carol of the Bells" from Home Alone; "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" from The Grinch Who Stole Christmas; and "My Favourite Things" from The Sound of Music. Toronto Children's Chorus; Jamie Drake, percussion; and a Jazz Trio; Zimfira Poloz, conductor. Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe St. 416-872-4255 or www.torontochildrenschorus.com. From $56.30. Come at 1:15pm for carols in the lobby before the concert.
Dec 14 2:30: Niagara Symphony Orchestra. Home for the Holidays. See Dec 13.
Dec 14 2:30: North Wind Concerts. Evergreen: Renaissance Music for the Longest Nights. Works for recorder consort by Byrd, Holborne, Tye, Senfl, Bevin and others. Romina Abadi, Avery Maclean, Alison Melville, Tatsuki Shimoda, and Colin Savage, recorders. Heliconian Hall, 35 Hazelton Ave. www.bemusednetwork.com/events/detail/1061. $30; $20(st/arts workers); $10(ages 12 & under).
Dec 14 3:00: Kokoro Singers. Wintersong. SATB chorus; Laura Pin, piano. West Plains United Church, 549 Plains Rd. W., Burlington. Visit Wintersong. $20; $15(sr/st); Free(under 12).
Dec 14 3:00: Melos Choir & Period Instruments. Journey to Bethlehem: Early Music of Advent, Christmas & Yalda with Carol Sing at St. John. Sdaf Amini, Iranian santur; Navaa Ensemble: Iman Moshiritabrizi, tenor; Alireza Ghane, tar; Reza Kashi, percussion. St. John the Apostle Church, 88 Patrick St., Kingston. www.melos-earlymusic.org or www.eventbrite.com.
Dec 14 3:00: Off Centre Music Salon. Life + Death. Genius + Jealousy. Rimsky-Korsakov: Mozart and Salieri; Mussorgsky: Songs and Dances of Death; and other works. Benjamin Butterfield, tenor (Mozart); Mira Kardan, cello; Peter McGillivray, bass-baritone (Salieri); Nancy Palk, actor; and other artists. Trinity St. Paul's United Church. Jeanne Lamon Hall, 427 Bloor St. W. www.offcentremusic.com. From $15.
Dec 14 3:00: Registry Theatre. A Big Band Christmas. See Dec 13.
Dec 14 3:00: Stratford Concert Choir. Messiah. See Dec 13.
Dec 14 3:00: TO Live. The Tallis Scholars. Tallis: "Gloria" from Missa Puer natus; Byrd: Votive Mass of the Virgin; Matthew Martin: New work (commissioned by Miller Theatre at Columbia University); Tallis: "Sanctus & Agnus" from Missa Puer natus; Britten: Hymn to the Virgin; and works by John Taverner & John Nesbett. Peter Phillips, director. Meridian Arts Centre - George Weston Recital Hall, 5040 Yonge St. www.tolive.com. From $40.
Dec 14 3:30: Peterborough Singers. Handel's Messiah. Leslie Fagan, soprano; Lillian Brooks, mezzo; Michael Colvin, tenor; Alex Dobson, bass. Emmanuel United Church, 534 George St. N., Peterborough. 705-745-1820 or www.peterboroughsingers.com. $40; $10(st).
Dec 14 4:00: Coro San Marco. The Bells for Peace. Coro San Marco and Soloists; Daniele Cole, artistic director. Columbus Centre - Joseph D. Carrier Gallery, 901 Lawrence Ave. W. www.villacharities.com/culture. $20; $15(sr/st).
Dec 14 4:00: Flute Street. Chestnuts, Candy Canes, and Carols. St. Andrew's United Church, 117 Bloor St E. 416-462-9498 or www.flutestreet.ca.
Dec 14 4:30: Christ Church Deer Park. Jazz Vespers: A Charlie Brown Christmas. 1570 Yonge St. 416-920-5211 or www.christchurchdeerpark.org. Free. Everyone welcome. Donations to support Christ Church Deer Park are appreciated.
Dec 14 4:30: Yorkminster Park Baptist Church. Carols by Candlelight. A timeless candlelit choral presentation. Yorkminster Park Choir; William Maddox, organ & director; Sharon Beckstead, associate musician. Yorkminster Park Baptist Church, 1585 Yonge St. www.yorkminsterpark.com. Free.
Dec 14 7:30: Cuckoo's Nest Folk Club. The Barrel Boys - "Carols from the Barrel". Chaucer's Pub, 122 Carling St., London. 519-319-5847 or folk@iandavies.com. Tickets available at Marienbad Restaurant, Chaucer's Pub, Grooves (Wortley Village), Long & McQuade North. $30/$25(adv).
Dec 14 7:30: Metropolitan Winds of Toronto. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. Whitacre: Noisy Wheels of Joy; Sheldon: Lindbergh Variations; Hammell: Skyline. Salvation Army Scarborough Citadel Community Church, 2021 Lawrence Ave. E., Scarborough. 416-321-8996. $20.
Dec 14 7:30: Toronto Beach Chorale. Ceremony of Carols. Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on Christmas Carols; Britten: A Ceremony of Carols; and familiar seasonal music and arrangements. Kingston Road United Church, 975 Kingston Rd. www.torontobeachchorale.com. $35; $25(youth).
Dec 14 8:00: Hugh's Room. Oakland Stroke. Hugh's Room Live - Green Sanderson Hall, 296 Broadview Ave. www.showpass.com/oakland-stroke. $45; $25(st/arts workers/underemployed).
Dec 14 8:00: Lula Lounge. Holiday Concert Supporting Mental Health. Mae Martin, Liberty Silver, and Birdsong Artists. 1585 Dundas St. W. www.birdsongnewmusicfoundation.ca. $60; $50(for musicians).
Dec 15 7:00: Peterborough Singers. Handel's Messiah. See Dec 14.
Dec 15 7:30: Burdock Music Hall. Hops 'n' Bops. Sophie Lanthier, flute; Marc Blouin, clarinet; Kevin Harris, bassoon. Burdock - Music Hall, 1184 Bloor St. W. Visit Hops 'n' Bops. $30; $20(st/arts workers).
Dec 15 7:30: London Pro Musica Choir. Handel's Messiah. St. James Westminster Church, 115 Askin St., London. www.londonpromusica.ca/event/handels-messiah-2. $40.
Dec 15 7:30: The Edison Singers. The Wonder of Christmas. Christmas carols. St. Mark's Anglican Church, 41 Byron St., Niagara-on-the-Lake. 226-384-9300 or www.theedisonsingers.com/performances. $45; $40(sr); $20(st); $10(child). Also Dec 20(3pm) - St. Andrew's United Church, Branford; 22(5pm) - Knox Presbyterian Church, Elora.
Dec 16 12:00_noon: Canadian Opera Company. Vocal Series: Winter Celebrations. Vocal selections both sacred and secular evoking the cold of the natural world and the warmth of the winter holidays. Artists of the COC Ensemble Studio. Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre, Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, 145 Queen St. W. www.coc.ca/freeconcerts. Free. Please check website for any programming updates.
Dec 16 5:00: Elora Singers. Festival of Carols. Choral music for the Holiday Season, including the world premiere of a piece by Sarah Slean, commissioned by The Elora Singers entitled "You Come and Go". Elora Singers; Jonathan Oldengarm, organ; Mark Vuorinen, conductor. St. John's Anglican Church, 36 Henderson St., Elora. 519-846-0331 or www.elorasingers.ca. $60; $20(st); $10(child). Also Dec 16(6pm); 17(2:30pm, 5pm & 8pm).
Dec 16 7:00: Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber Music Society. Beethoven's Birthday Concert. Program to be announced. Keffer Memorial Chapel, Wilfrid Laurier University, 75 University Ave. W., Waterloo. www.ticketscene.ca/kwcms. $40; $10(st).
Dec 16 7:30: Columbus Concert Band. Holiday Concert at St.Charles Borromeo Church. Columbus Concert Band & Columbus Jazz Band. St. Charles Borromeo Church, 811 Lawrence Ave. W., North York. 416-789-7011 or www.columbusconcertband.com. From $10.
Dec 16 7:30: Hannaford Street Silver Band. Merry & Bright. A holiday celebration in voice and brass including a world premiere by Christopher Ducasse. Guest artists: Alex Hetherington, mezzo & Orpheus Choir of Toronto. Yorkminster Park Baptist Church, 1585 Yonge St. www.hssb.ca or www.orpheuschoirtoronto.com.
Dec 16 7:30: Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Messiah. Music by George Frideric Handel. Lauren Snouffer, soprano; Susan Platts, mezzo; Anthony Léon, tenor; Gerald Finley, bass-baritone; Toronto Mendelssohn Choir; Michael Francis, conductor. Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe St. www.tso.ca or 416-598-3375. Also Dec 17(7:30pm), 19(7:30pm), 20(7:30pm), 21(3pm).
Dec 16 8:00: Hugh's Room. Kelly Lee Evans: Wintersong. Hugh's Room Live - Green Sanderson Hall, 296 Broadview Ave. www.showpass.com/kellylee-evans-wintersong-2. $45; $22(st/arts workers/underemployed).
Dec 16 8:00: Massey Hall/F7 Live. Ms. Lauryn Hill. Massey Hall, 178 Victoria St. www.tickets.mhrth.com/7231/7232. From $215.
Dec 17 12:00_noon: Canadian Opera Company. Vocal Series: Where Her Music Blooms. A vocal recital celebrating the vibrant and innovative works of 21st-century female composers, featuring works by Cecilia Livingston and Kaija Saariaho. Ariane Cossette, soprano; Brian Cho, piano. Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre, Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, 145 Queen St. W. www.coc.ca/freeconcerts. Free. Please check website for any programming updates.
Dec 17 12:15: St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church (Kitchener). Douglas Haas Legacy Concerts. 50th Anniversary. Fiddlesticks Cambridge Girls' Choir; Jessica Strub, director. 54 Queen St. N., Kitchener. 519-578-4430. Free. Lunch available for purchase at 11:30am or bring your own.
Dec 17 2:30: Elora Singers. Festival of Carols. Choral music for the Holiday Season, including the world premiere of a piece by Sarah Slean, commissioned by The Elora Singers entitled "You Come and Go". Elora Singers; Jonathan Oldengarm, organ; Mark Vuorinen, conductor. St. John's Anglican Church, 36 Henderson St., Elora. 519-846-0331 or www.elorasingers.ca. $60; $20(st); $10(child). Also Dec 16(5pm & 6pm); 17(5pm & 8pm).
Dec 17 6:00: The Painted Lady. Heidi Savoie at The Painted Lady: Winesday. Jazz, Pop, Rock and Classics requests. Heidi Savoie, piano. 218 Ossington Ave. www.heidisavoie.com or 416-531-5042.
Dec 17 7:30: FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre. Jann Arden Christmas Tour. FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre - Cairns Recital Hall, 250 St. Paul St., St. Catharines. www.firstontariopac.ca. From $90. Also Dec 18.
Dec 17 7:30: Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Messiah. See Dec 16. Also Dec 19(7:30pm), 20(7:30pm), 21(3pm).
Dec 17 8:00: Elora Singers. Festival of Carols. See Dec 16.
Dec 17 8:00: Hugh's Room. Boreal. Hugh's Room Live - Green Sanderson Hall, 296 Broadview Ave. www.showpass.com/boreal-2. $35; $17(st/arts workers/underemployed).
Dec 17 8:00: Massey Hall. Good Lovelies Holiday Concert. 178 Victoria St. www.tickets.mhrth.com/6979/6980. From $53.
Dec 18 12:00_noon: Canadian Opera Company. Vocal Series: Northern Lights. Ola Gjeilo: Northern Lights; Andrew Balfour: Wyandot’s Realm; and works by Bev Lewis, Katharine Petkovski, and other celebrated Canadian women composers. Cantala Choir. Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre, Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, 145 Queen St. W. www.coc.ca/freeconcerts. Free. Please check website for any programming updates.
Dec 18 5:30: Canadian Opera Company/Union Station. Opera Express: Holiday Edition. Favourite holiday classics reimagined through movement, visual art, and song. Annemarie Cabri, Isabella Fassler, and Timothy Cheung (COC Teaching Artists); Ross Mortimer (COC Chorus Member); Alex Hetherington (past COC Ensemble Studio artist). Union Station - West Wing, 65 Front St. W. Free.
Dec 18 7:00: 918 Bathurst Centre for Culture, Arts, Media & Education. Windsor Johnson: Feeled Notes - A Nature-Themed Piano Recital. Solo piano music of Chopin, Debussy, Schubert/Liszt and Hania Rani as well as his own compositions & transcriptions. Windsor Johnson, piano. 918 Bathurst Centre for Culture, Arts, Media and Education, 918 Bathurst St. www.feelednotespianorecital.eventbrite.com. $40(at door); $35(adv); $25(st with valid ID) by cash(preferred) or e-transfer.
Dec 18 7:00: Caliban Arts Theatre. An Evening of Caribbean Jazz Fusion: Eddie Bullen, Etric Lyons & Guests. CONTXT by Trane, 254 Lansdowne Ave. Visit An Evening of Caribbean Jazz Fusion. $25/$15(adv).
Dec 18 7:30: Array Productions. Playscape Emporium: Theatrics. Frederic Rzewski: Fall of the Empire; Domenic Clarke: Adore; Raymond Luedeke: Garbage Delight. Curated by Duo Cichorim with guests: Hee-Soo Yoon, Toronto Saxophone Collective, Trevor Flemings, and Domenic Clarke. Array Space, 155 Walnut Ave. www.tickettailor.com/events/arraymusic1/1883790. Live: $25 or Pay What You Want; Livestream: $12 or Pay What You Want.
Dec 18 7:30: Brott Music Festival. Handel's Messiah. Arcady Singers; National Academy Orchestra of Canada; Tania Miller, conductor. Burlington Performing Arts Centre, 440 Locust St., Burlington. 905-525-7664. From $25.
Dec 18 7:30: FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre. Jann Arden Christmas Tour. See Dec 17.
Dec 18 7:30: Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra. Handel: Messiah. Stephanie True, soprano; Krisztina Szabó, mezzo; Nicholas Scott, tenor; Jonathan Woody, bass-baritone; Tafelmusik Chamber Choir; Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra; Ivars Taurins, director. Royal Conservatory of Music - TELUS Centre - Koerner Hall, 273 Bloor St. W. 416-408-0208 or www.tafelmusik.org. $45. Also Dec 19 & 20.
Dec 18 8:00: Flato Markham Theatre. Leahy: Celtic Roots and Christmas Cheer. 171 Town Centre Blvd., Markham. 905-305-7469 or www.flatomarkhamtheatre.ca.
Dec 18 8:00: Hugh's Room. A Soulful Christmas Featuring Quisha Wint, Michael Dunston, and Sean Jones. Hugh's Room Live - Green Sanderson Hall, 296 Broadview Ave. www.showpass.com/a-soulful-holiday-with-quisha-wint-and-friends. $40; $20(st/arts workers/underemployed).
Dec 18 8:00: Massey Hall. Classic Albums Live: Pink Floyd - Animals. 178 Victoria St. www.tickets.mhrth.com/6887/6891. From $59.
ADVANCE LISTINGS, Fri Dec 19 - Sun Dec 21
Dec 19 11:00am: Roy Thomson Hall. Free Noon Choir & Organ Concert Series: Orpheus Choir of Toronto - Merry & Bright. 60 Simcoe St. www.tickets.mhrth.com or 416-598-3375. Free.
Dec 19 7:30: Cuckoo's Nest Folk Club. Pub Caroling with Paul Grambo & Steve Holowitz. Chaucer's Pub, 122 Carling St., London. 519-319-5847 or folk@iandavies.com. Tickets available at Marienbad Restaurant, Chaucer's Pub, Grooves (Wortley Village), Long & McQuade North. Suggested donation: $10.
Dec 19 7:30: Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra. Handel: Messiah. See Dec 18. Also Dec 20.
Dec 19 7:30: Toronto Bandura Festival. Bandura on Bloor 2025 Concert Series - Christmas Special. Banduralicious, Bandura Trio, and Solomia Shevchuk. Heliconian Hall, 35 Hazelton Ave. 416-845-2691 or www.torontobandurafestival.ca. $25(Early Bird); $35(Regular); $30(sr/under 30); Free(under 12). Partial net proceeds will sponsor scholarships to the Litnia Zustrich Bandura Camp for Ukrainian children who have moved to Canada due to the war in Ukraine.
Dec 19 7:30: Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Messiah. See Dec 16. Also Dec 20(7:30pm), 21(3pm).
Dec 19 8:00: Collective Concerts. Christmas Hour with Noah Reid. Massey Hall, 178 Victoria St. www.tickets.mhrth.com/7108/7109. From $68.
Dec 19 8:00: Hugh's Room. Global Holiday. Hugh's Room Live - Green Sanderson Hall, 296 Broadview Ave. www.showpass.com/global-holiday. $40.
Dec 20 2:00: Massey Hall. CHOIR! CHOIR! CHOIR! Un-Silent Night: An Epic Holiday Singalong. 178 Victoria St. www.tickets.mhrth.com. From $53. Also 8pm.
Dec 20 3:00: Chorus Niagara. Children's Messiah. Caitlin Wood, soprano; Daniel Cabena, counter-tenor; Asitha Tennekoon, tenor; Korin Thomas-Smith, bass; Chorus Niagara Children's Choir; Monica Dufault, narrator; Krista Rhodes, organ; Vlad Soloviev, harpsichord; Concordo Orchestra. FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre - Partridge Hall, 250 St. Paul St., St. Catharines. www.firstontariopac.ca. $68(Diamond); $52(adult); $48(sr); $35(under 35) $15(university/college st/child under 15); $5(highschool st with valid ID).
Dec 20 3:00: The Edison Singers. The Wonder of Christmas. Christmas carols. St. Andrew's United Church, 95 Darling St., Brantford. 226-384-9300 or www.theedisonsingers.com/performances. $40; $40(sr); $20(st); $10(child). Also Dec 15(7:30pm) - St. Mark's Anglican Church, Niagara-on-the-lake; 22(5pm) - Knox Presbyterian Church, Elora.
Dec 20 7:30: Chorus Niagara. Handel's Messiah. Caitlin Wood, soprano; Daniel Cabena, counter-tenor; Asitha Tennekoon, tenor; Korin Thomas-Smith, bass; Chorus Niagara Children's Choir; Krista Rhodes, organ; Vlad Soloviev, harpsichord; Concordo Orchestra. FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre - Partridge Hall, 250 St. Paul St., St. Catharines. www.firstontariopac.ca. $68(Diamond); $52(adult); $48(sr); $35(under 35) $15(university/college st/child under 15); $5(highschool st with valid ID).
Dec 20 7:30: Flato Markham Theatre. The Wonderful World of Christmas - Graceland Edition. Steve Michaels, vocalist. 171 Town Centre Blvd., Markham. 905-305-7469 or www.flatomarkhamtheatre.ca. From $78.
Dec 20 7:30: Forte - Toronto Gay Men's Chorus. Warm for December: Warm Songs for a Cold World. Jeff MacLean, piano; Heidi Bearcroft, harp; Don MacDonald, guitar; Bryan La, marimba; Ed Connell, artistic director & conductor. Trinity St. Paul's United Church and Centre for Faith, Justice and the Arts, 427 Bloor St. W. 647-483-6199 or www.fortechorus.com. $40; $30(Early Bird).
Dec 20 7:30: Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra. Handel: Messiah. See Dec 18.
Dec 20 7:30: Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Messiah. See Dec 16. Also Dec 21(3pm).
Dec 20 7:30: VOCA Chorus of Toronto. Winter's Light. Seasonal songs including world premieres by Canadian composers Sarah Quartel & Mark Sirett. Jenny Crober, director; Dakota Scott-Digout, collaborative pianist; Sybil Shanahan, cello; Jamie Drake, percussion; Shawn Grenke, organ. Eglinton St. George's United Church, 35 Lytton Blvd. www.vocachorus.ca. $35; $20(st).
Dec 20 8:00: Batuki Music Society. The Rhythm Section Band Concert - Ghanaian Highlife Music. The Rhythm Section: Dally Dominic, bass guitar; Kofi Ackah, drums; Quandoe Harrison, keyboards; George Kobby, vocals, Gabriel Amankwah, keyboards; Daniel Boateng, lead guitar. It's OK Studios, 468 Queen St. W. www.Rhythm20DEC25.eventbrite.ca. $25(door); $20(adv).
Dec 20 8:00: Brampton On Stage. High Priest Reggae Fest Featuring Exco Levi. A night of reggae rhythm, culture, and conscious music. Rose Theatre, 1 Theatre Ln., Brampton. 905-874-2800 or www.tickets.brampton.ca. From $20.
Dec 20 8:00: Caliban Arts Theatre. Black Underground 30th Anniversary Soul Vocals Series: Double Tribute to Teddy Pendergrass and Barry White. Carlos Morgan, lead vocals; Coco LaRaine, guest vocalist; Omar Martin, guitar; Kirk Grange, keyboards; Anthony Wisdom, bass; Taijon Williams, drums. 918 Bathurst Centre for Culture, Arts, Media and Education, 918 Bathurst St. www.tickets.contxtbytrane.com/events/contxtbytrane/1808178. $30(adv); $45(door).
Dec 20 8:00: Massey Hall. CHOIR! CHOIR! CHOIR! Un-Silent Night: An Epic Holiday Singalong. See Dec 20(2pm).
Dec 21 2:00: Bernard Betel Centre. Edith Piaf & French Love Songs. Janette & Friends from One of a Kind Concerts. 1003 Steeles Ave W. 416-225-2112 X103. $15(member); $25(non member).
Dec 21 2:00: Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra. Singalong Messiah. Stephanie True, soprano; Krisztina Szabó, mezzo; Nicholas Scott, tenor; Jonathan Woody, bass-baritone; Tafelmusik Chamber Choir; Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra; Mr. Handel, director. Massey Hall, 178 Victoria St. 416-408-0208 or www.tafelmusik.org. $45.
Dec 21 3:00: Royal Conservatory of Music. VOCES8. Royal Conservatory of Music - TELUS Centre - Koerner Hall, 273 Bloor St. W. 416-408-0208 or www.rcmusic.com/performance. From $65 - SOLD OUT!. Also 7pm.
Dec 21 3:00: Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Messiah. See Dec 16.
Dec 21 4:30: Yorkminster Park Baptist Church. Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. In the tradition of King’s College, Cambridge. Yorkminster Park Choir; William Maddox, organ & director; Sharon Beckstead, associate musician. Yorkminster Park Baptist Church, 1585 Yonge St. www.yorkminsterpark.com. Free.
Dec 21 5:00: Nocturnes in the City. Czecho-Slovak Dixieland and Pre-Christmas Jazz. St. Wenceslaus Church, 496 Gladstone Ave. 416-481-7294. $25.
Dec 21 6:30: Jazz Bistro. A Jewish Boy's Christmas. Sam Broverman & Whitney Ross-Barris, JBC Philharmonic Orchestra (Peter Mill, piano; Jordan O'Connor, bass; Tony Quarrington; guitar). 251 Victoria St. 416-363-5299. $20 cover charge.
Dec 21 7:00: Brampton On Stage. Re-Imagined: A Holiday Affair Featuring Divine Brown. Celebrate the holiday season with host Darryn de Souza and the sensational Divine Brown. Rose Theatre, 1 Theatre Ln., Brampton. 905-874-2800 or www.tickets.brampton.ca. From $25.
Dec 21 7:30: Royal Conservatory of Music. VOCES8. See Dec 21(3pm).
Dec 21 7:39: FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre. A Next Generation Leahy Christmas. FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre - Partridge Hall, 250 St. Paul St., St. Catharines. www.firstontariopac.ca. From $36.
Dec 21 8:00: Victoria Scholars Men's Choral Ensemble. O Night Divine. Ring in the Yuletide with the Victoria Scholars as they present a concert of carols from Christmas past and present by composers from Canada and around the world. St. Leo's Catholic Church, 277 Royal York Rd., Etobicoke. 416-476-4078. $30; $25(sr/st).
ETCETERAS
The ETCETERAS are listings for date-related events - live and virtual - that are of musical interest but which are not performances. This includes, for example, conferences and symposia, masterclasses, workshops, and film screenings. Just like our daily concert listings, the ETCETERAS are updated weekly online, and are free of charge. Please contact our listings team for more information at etc@thewholenote.com.
Please note that the ETCETERAS do not include audition and recruitment notices or job postings.To promote these opportunities, please contact advertising@thewholenote.com.
Dec 21 1:30: Toronto Early Music Players Organization (TEMPO). Merry Meters! - Renaissance Christmas Tunes in Two and Three. Step into the festive spirit with a playful workshop exploration of Renaissance carol settings. Discover how familiar seasonal melodies like “Puer nobis nascitur” and “Vom Himmel hoch” are cleverly reimagined through shifting meters, moving gracefully between duple and triple time. Avery Maclean, session leader. Grace Church on-the-Hill, 300 Lonsdale Rd. www.tempotoronto.net or info@tempotoronto.net. $20 for non-members.
MUSICAL THEATRE
Bad Hats Theatre. Narnia. Adapted & directed by Fiona Sauder. Music and lyrics by Landon Doak. Young Centre for the Performing Arts, Baillie Theatre, 50 Tankhouse Lane. www.tickets.youngcentre.ca. To Dec 28.
Church of the Holy Trinity. The Christmas Story. Professional musicians and a volunteer cast present this charming hour-long Nativity pageant. 19 Trinity Sq. 416-598-4521 or www.thechristmasstory.ca or christmasstory@holytrinitytoronto.org. $25; $10(child). Dec 13, 14, 19(7pm), 20, 21. Performances at 4:30pm unless otherwise indicated.
Drayton Entertainment. Shrek The Musical. Hamilton Family Theatre, Cambridge, 46 Grand Ave S, Cambridge. www.draytonentertainment.com/theatres/hamilton-family-theatre-cambridge/shrek-the-musical. To Dec 28.
Drayton Entertainment. Cinderella: The Panto. St. Jacobs Country Playhouse, 40 Benjamin Rd., Waterloo. www.draytonentertainment.com. To Jan 4.
Elgin Wintergarden Theatre Centre/Canadian Stage. Robin Hood: A Very Merry Family Musical. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Winter Garden Theatre, 189 Yonge St. www.my.canadianstage.com. To Jan 4.
Factory Theatre. Holiday! An Improvised Musical. Directed by Jan Caruana. Factory Theatre, 125 Bathurst St. Visit Holiday! An Improved Musical. Dec 10-20.
Grand Theatre. Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical. Grand Theatre, 471 Richmond St., London. www.grandtheatre.com/event/frozen. To Dec 28.
Mirvish. & Juliet. Created by Canadian David West Read and starring an all-Canadian cast featuring Vanessa Sears and George Krissa with songs from the catalogue of Max Martin. Royal Alexandra Theatre, 260 King St. W. www.mirvish.com. To Mar 3.
Royal Theatre. The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical. Written by Tim Drucker & Bonnie Milligan. Music by Joel Waggoner. Lyrics by Tim Drucker, Bonnie Milligan & Joel Waggoner. 608 College St. www.hallmarkish.com. To Jan 4.
Shaw Festival. A Christmas Carol. By Charles Dickens. Adapted for the stage by Tim Carroll. Royal George Theatre, 85 Queen St., Niagara-on-the-Lake. To Dec 21.
Shaw Festival. Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin. Book by David Ives and Paul Blake. Festival Theatre, 10 Queen's Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake. To Dec 21.
Soulpepper Theatre. ’Twas on a Night Like This. Created by Beau Dixon. Michael Young Theatre, Young Centre for the Performing Arts, Baillie Theatre, 50 Tankhouse Lane. www.soulpepper.ca/performances/on-a-night-like-this. Dec 12-28.
Theatre Aquarius. Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical. 190 King William St., Hamilton. www.theatreaquarius.org/events/disneys-frozen-the-broadway-musical. To Dec 21.
Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre. Wintersong: Dances for a Sacred Season. The Terminal Theatre, Queens Quay Terminal, 3rd Floor, 207 Queens Quay W. Visit www.ccdt.org/wintersong2025. Dec 12(8pm), 13(8pm), 14(2pm).
Yes Theatre, Sudbury. Annie. www.yestheatre.com/main-stage-2025/annie. To Dec 22.
Young People’s Theatre. Shrek The Musical. Ada Slaight Stage, 165 Front St. E. www.youngpeoplestheatre.org/shows-tickets/shrek-the-musical. To Dec 30.
