Mark your calendars for Sunday, December 21, 2025, because you won’t want to miss this enchanting Christmas Miscellany concert—a festive blend of music, poetry, and storytelling that’s sure to warm your heart. But here’s where it gets even more special: to enjoy this magical experience on RTÉ.ie’s radio and podcast services, you’ll need to disable any ad blockers or whitelist the site. It’s a small step that opens the door to a world of holiday wonder.
Kicking off the evening is Part 1 of the Christmas Miscellany concert from the National Concert Hall, featuring the RTÉ Concert Orchestra under the baton of the talented Gavin Maloney. The program is a carefully curated mix of new and classic works, designed to captivate both seasoned listeners and newcomers alike. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the music; it’s about the stories and emotions woven into every piece.
First up is The Menu, a thought-provoking piece by Kathleen MacMahon, followed by two poignant poems by Paul Muldoon: Whilst the Ox and Ass and There Is No Room Here for a King. These works invite reflection on the deeper meanings of the season. Mia Döring then takes center stage with Palo Santo, a piece that adds a modern twist to traditional themes. But here’s where it gets controversial—Paul Howard’s What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve and Cauvery Madhavan’s Driving Home for Christmas explore the complexities of holiday expectations, leaving us to ponder: Is the season truly as joyful as it’s portrayed?
The musical performances, all by the RTÉ Concert Orchestra with leader Bróna Cahill, are nothing short of spectacular. Highlights include God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, arranged by David Willcocks and sung by the Palestrina Choir under Blánaid Murphy’s direction. The choir’s rendition of Joy to the World, arranged by Mark Wilberg, is a showstopper, but it’s the solo harp performance by Geraldine O’Doherty in In the Bleak Midwinter that truly steals the show. Her delicate yet powerful playing adds a layer of intimacy to the piece, making it a standout moment.
Speaking of controversy, Handel’s Réjouissance from *Music for the Royal Fireworks* is a bold choice for a Christmas concert. Its grandeur and exuberance might seem out of place, but it’s a reminder that the holidays are as much about celebration as they are about reflection. And let’s not forget Lisa Lambe’s soulful rendition of What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve, arranged by Cathleen Flynn, which leaves us questioning whether we’re truly ready for the year ahead.
As the concert draws to a close, you’ll find yourself immersed in a tapestry of sound and emotion, from the lively La Réjouissance to the serene In the Bleak Midwinter. But here’s the real question: In a world that often feels rushed and chaotic, can we still find meaning in these timeless traditions? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do these pieces resonate with you, or do they leave you wanting something more? One thing’s for sure: this Christmas Miscellany concert is an experience you won’t soon forget.
