85th Annual Candlelight Concert Scheduled In Westport

WESTPORT, CT —The 85th Annual Candlelight Concert, presented by the Staples High School Music Department, is scheduled to be held in the school's auditorium at 8 p.m. on Dec. 12, and 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Dec. 13, organizers announced.

"This annual gift to the Westport community showcases the talents of more than 200 students from Staples’ nationally recognized music program," officials said in a statement.

For 2025, the Candlelight Concert promises an evening of brilliance, reflection, and joy, a celebration of timeless music and new beginnings. Under the direction of the Staples Music faculty, audiences will experience an extraordinary range of works that highlight the depth and artistry of Staples’ performers.

From the announcement:

The program once again opens with Susato’s spirited La Morisque and the beloved Candlelight processional, Sing We Noel. The processional leads into Ashlosha D’Avarim, a musical setting of the well-known Pirkei Avot verse that highlights the enduring values of truth, justice, and peace. From there, listeners will be taken on a journey through vivid musical landscapes, from the brisk energy of
Prokofiev’s Troika to the lush harmonies of Rachmaninov’s Bogoroditse Devo and the radiant optimism of Rosephanye Powell’s Ogo ni fun Oluwa.

A highlight of the evening will be John Rutter’s Gloria, bringing 200+ students together on stage for this cornerstone of contemporary choral music. Known for its rhythmic vitality and challenging writing, the piece showcases a level of musical achievement seldom seen at the high school level. Adding a touch of student leadership and holiday cheer, the concert will also feature festive favorites
performed by student-led ensembles such as Carol of the Bells, You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch, and
Jingle Bell Rock.

The concert concludes with Leroy Anderson’s iconic Sleigh Ride, followed, as tradition holds, by Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, inviting the audience to share in the wonder and spirit of the season. Tickets will be available to the public on Tuesday, Dec 2, starting at 9am. You can get tickets online at
www.staplesmusic.org (4 ticket maximum). Order promptly, tickets historically sell out fast. There is no charge for Candlelight tickets, however donations in support of the music program are graciously accepted.

In the spirit of the season, the Staples Tri-M Music Honor Society will be collecting for “CanDelight”, a canned food donation drive to benefit the Westport Homes for Hope Food Pantry. Collection bins will be in the lobby of Staples High School before each concert if you would like to contribute!

— Flyer from Westport Public Schools