Five magical musical Christmas traditions that you shouldn’t miss in York

Candlelit processions in the Minster, Christmas carols at the Barbican and community choirs on the streets – it’s set to be a magical musical couple of weeks.

Showcasing the talents of singers, instrumentalists and arrangers, these performances are fast becoming festive traditions – and the last one certainly demonstrates the spirit of Christmas.

York Community Carol Concert

York’s 59th annual Community Carol Concert will take place once again at the York Barbican. Reverend Andrew Foster hosts, while Mike Pratt and John Warburton conduct. The concert will involve musical talent including the Shepherd Group Concert Brass Band, the York Military Wives Choir, Huntington Primary Academy Choir and Lord Deramore Primary School Choir. Look out too for Steve Cassidy and Archies Boys Aloud.

Handel’s Messiah

Long before Leonard Cohen came along, Handel had penned his own Hallelujah Chorus. York Minster’s choir is joined by internationally renowned soloists for a seasonal performance of Handel’s Messiah. First performed in 1742 the famous work sounds at its glorious best in the acoustics of the Minster.

Sankta Lucia

A carol service for all the family, Sankta Lucia begins with a candlelit procession. Based on the traditional Swedish service, the performers dress in white and sing songs and carols from Sweden. The free event is expected to be a full house once again so it is advised to arrive early.

Early Music Christmas Festival

Moving and inspiring in equal measure, this year’s York Early Music Christmas Festival programme boasts an impressive variety of performers. Among the artists are Spiritato, Gothic Voices, The Goldfinch Ensemble – and keyboard player Trevor Pinnock who will be celebrating his 70th birthday with friends and special guests.

Sing for SASH

The third Sing For SASH will see city musicians and choirs filling the streets of York with Christmas music over the weekend. All money collected goes to the critical work of SASH helping young people who have found themselves homeless.