On December 22 international notables Elîna Garanca and José Cura are to be joined on stage by the Vienna Boys’ Choir, the Wiener Singakademie and the Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra for the Christmas in Vienna gala. Seasonal music from around the globe, spanning centuries of tradition, will culminate in “Silent Night”. And as a prelude, visitors can join in the seasonal “Christmas Sing-Along” with the Wiener Singakademie in the Mozart-Saal.

The Christmas in Vienna gala was premiered in 1992 and, ever since, has boasted glittering line-ups: from Plácido Domingo, José Carreras and Luciano Pavarotti to Grace Bumbry and Thomas Hampson. This year, two great stars from the international world of opera – Elaîna Garanca and José Cura – will be gracing the stage of Vienna’s Konzerthaus, and together with soprano Eteri Lamoris and Austrian baritone Paul A. Edelmann giving renditions of Christmas classics in the world’s capital of music.

The Vienna Boys’ Choir – Austria’s cultural ambassadors par excellence – will be appearing, as will the 100-plus members of the Wiener Singakademie. The instrumental backdrop comes from the renowned Radio Symphony Orchestra conducted by Karel Mark Chichon.

The program features everything from classics and alpine favorites to songs from the UK, Italy, Latvia and Argentina. And at the end, all soloists will come together to perform what is undoubtedly the ultimate Christmas carol – “Silent Night”.

A few hours beforehand those interested in a seasonal sing-along can also head to the Konzerthaus for a newly revived tradition, joining the Wiener Singakademie in the Mozart-Saal to sing the most beautiful Advent and Christmas carols. Youngsters are also very welcome!