FALL/WINTER 2026 - Christmas Through the Ages
Experience the timeless spirit of Christmas through the rich, distinctive sound of a guitar orchestra, joined by acclaimed composer and Chapman Stick virtuoso Tom Griesgraber. This festive program celebrates the season with an extraordinary musical journey spanning centuries— from the beauty of medieval melodies and beloved traditional carols to impressionistic contemporary holiday works. This year's concert explores innovative Christmas music, blending early masterpieces, treasured classics, and vibrant modern arrangements into a program that offers something for everyone.
The Encinitas Guitar Orchestra Fall Schedule
Rehearsals - Mondays, Sept 21 thru Dec 7, 6-9pm
Concert Friday, December 11, 2026, Call time 4pm, concert 7:30pm
REGISTRATION FORM
REPERTOIRE DESCRIPTIONS BELOW
See Sheetmusic downloads Fall 2026
In Dulci Jubilo - arr. Andrew Forrest
"In Dulci Jubilo" is a traditional medieval Christmas carol. Its anonymous 14th-century melody was first published in 1582 in the Finnish song collection Piae Cantiones.
O Holy Night - arr. Adolphe Adam, arr. Keith Van Zandt
O Holy Night" (original title: Cantique de Noël) is a sacred song associated with the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Its text is based on the 1847 French poem Minuit, chrétiens by Placide Cappeau, which was set to music by composer Adolphe Adam. The widely known English version was written by John Sullivan Dwight, who introduced notable changes to the meaning of the original French lyrics. The carol has become a standard part of Christmas repertoire and has been recorded by numerous artists.
Huron Fantasy, arr. Alan Hirsh
A lush arrangement of the Huron Carol, Canada’s oldest Christmas Carol (also know as Twas in the Moon of Wintertime), from the 1600’s. Unfolding in a theme and variations, the setting is infused with native American musical elements along with textural contrast. Techniques, include tambura (hitting the strings with R.H fingers), harmonics, and a variety of guitar percussion. Available in standard and expanded (with contrabass). A fresh addition to our holiday program!
"Noël des enfants qui n'ont plus de maison" ("A Carol for Homeless Children") is one of Claude Debussy's most emotionally charged works. Composed in December 1915, during the height of World War I, it is both a Christmas carol and expresses his concern for children affected by the devastation of war. Have a listen to this version and know that Dan Libertino is working up an arrangement for guitar orchestra - https://youtu.be/_srvt1N56OY?si=98pBy07IhttTH1Hf
Sheep May Safely Graze - https://youtu.be/N-Whv5SHYfw?si=1fUsIw_WN1fEghO8
Skating - Vince Guaraldi, arr. Peter Pupping
Guest artist Tom Griesgraber composed the following two pieces for a movie which has since been arranged for guitar orchestra.
Big Idea - Tom Griesgraber composer & arranger
Cassettes - Tom Griesgraber composer & arranger
VOCAL (That's the name of the piece) - Max Richter arr. Dan Libertino, We will be working from this arrangement however we will shorten it to about 4 minutes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzwTHjOy-lM