Peppermint Pops rings in the Christmas season – VIDEO ADDED

ALBANY, Ga. — Festive holiday sounds filled the air at the Albany Municipal Auditorium Saturday as the Albany Symphony Orchestra and the Albany Chorale presented the 21st annual Peppermint Pops Christmas concert. This year, they were joined by special guests, the highly-acclaimed Boston Brass quintet. A selection of holiday favorites, with a special touch from the blues and swing sound of the Boston Brass, set an upbeat mood at one of Albany’s most well-known family-friendly holiday events.

“I look forward to this event every year,” said attendee Judith Hatch. “The performance is always excellent, but this year the Boston Brass was the icing on the cake.”

Albany Symphony Music Director Claire Fox Hillard said that after previously working with the Boston Brass he was eager to bring their outstanding musical abilities and highly entertaining style to Albany. The group’s lively repartee uses humor and personality as a bridge between classical formality and their audience.

“This is my first time at the Peppermint Pops, and I thought the Albany Symphony was great. The Boston Brass trumpet player was the best I’ve ever heard,” said Dohn Bonner of Forsyth, Georgia, who was in town visiting family. “It was a real joy, especially at this time of year. It kind of touches your heart.”

The Albany Chorale, under the direction of Dr. Marcia M. Hood, chair of the Department of Fine Arts at Albany State University and the director of Choral Activities, was also joined by select members of area high school choirs.