These Tucson Christmas Concerts Will Bring The Holiday Groove

TUCSON, AZ — Christmas music is part of the full Christmas experience each year, whether one loves it or hates it. “Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer” is ever with us on the muzak in our local Safeway, and it’s No. 4 on Newsweek’s list of the Top 20 Best-selling Christmas Songs of All Time. Likewise, the happy lyrics of “Jingle Bell Rock” (No. 16) or the poignant melody of “Mary Did You Know” (No. 8) are certainly heard at that busy fast food joint or sit-down restaurant where you and 25 others stopped to take a quick break from some intensive Christmas shopping. But for Christmas music lovers who want something more up close and personal, these 6 Tucson holiday concerts might prove a little more satisfying:

1. David Benoit Christmas Tribute to Charlie Brown at Leo Rich Theatre, Wed., Dec. 11, 7-9 p.m., 260 S. Church Ave., Tucson. More than 50 years since the “Peanuts” animated TV show debuted in 1965, multi-Grammy nominated solo artist David Benoit brings a tribute to Charlie Brown’s Christmas history. Acclaimed vocalist Sara Gazarek joins in the concert. Tickets are $42.50-$62.50. To see available seats or book a ticket, go to ticketmaster.com.
2. Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show at The Rialto, Sat., Dec. 14, 8-10 p.m., 318 E. Congress St., Tucson. The musicians’ holiday tour includes songs from “Talkin’ Christmas,” their most recent Christmas album. Original holiday songs will be performed, as will the group’s Grammy-winning rendition of “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” in addition to other holiday tunes. Suitable for ages 7 and older. Prices are $32-$38. To find out more or book a ticket online, access the theatre’s website or call 520-740-1000.
3. Messiah & Bach: Tucson Symphony Orchestra Holiday Special, Sat., Dec. 14 at 4 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 15 at 2 p.m., Catalina Foothills High School Music Hall, 4300 E. Sunrise Dr., Tucson. The Christmas concert includes Handel’s Water Music Suite 2, Corelli’s Concerto Grosso No. 8 “Christmas Concerto,” Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 and highlights from Handel’s “Messiah.” Tickets are $66 or $86, but groups of 10 or more get a 10 percent discount. To book a ticket, go to ticketmaster.com. For questions, call the TSO Box Office at 520-882-8585.
4. Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus Holiday Concert, Sat., Dec. 14 at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., University of Arizona Fred Fox School of Music, Crowder Hall, 1017 N. Olive Road, Tucson. The choir will perform sacred songs, Christmas carols and Hanukkah selections. The boys also perform their signature piece: an a cappella rendition of “Carol of the Bells.” Tickets are $20 (premium), $15 (general) or $8 (children younger than age 12). Group pricing is available by calling 520-296-6277, or go to the Boys Chorus website to purchase individual tickets online.
5. In the Christmas Mood: A Holiday Music Spectacular at Fox Tucson Theatre, Fri., Dec. 20, 7:30-9:30 p.m., 17 W. Congress St., Tucson. A musical event honoring the classic style of the Bing Crosby and Andy Williams Christmas specials, this one has dancers too. Timeless tunes such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Sleigh Ride” and many more will be performed, and 94.9 MIX-FM Morning Mix deejays Mrs. G. and Greg Curtis make an appearance. A portion of funds raised will be donated to the Diaper Bank of Southern Arizona, and attendees can also donate any size diapers at the music show. Admission is $29-$58, and online orders have a $5.50 processing fee. To see full ticket price ranges or to book online, go to the theatre’s website or call 520-547-3040.
6. The Texas Tenors: Deep in the Heart of Christmas, Sat., Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 22 at 2 p.m., Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave., Tucson. No. 1 Billboard artists and Emmy award winners The Texas Tenors perform alongside the Tucson Symphony Orchestra in a holiday concert featuring Christmas favorites such as “Joy to theWorld” and “O Holy Night,” in addition to the original song “Bootdaddy.” Prices range from $17-$52.50. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com or by phone at 800-745-3000.