Saturday, December 9

4 p.m. - 5 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
CHRISTMAS FROM THE WORLD CAFÉ

NPR and WXPN present an encore presentation of a very special "roots Christmas" stage show featuring new takes on holiday classics, as well as new contributions to the holiday tradition. David Dye hosts this one-hour program of roots, blues, Americana, and other contemporary music artists providing some old-fashioned Christmas cheer -- recorded onstage at the World Cafe Live in Philadelphia . Guest artists include, Raul Midon, Jonatha Brooke, and the Old Crow Medicine Show.

Monday, December 11

8 p.m. – 9 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
CHRISTMAS WITH MOREHOUSE AND SPELMAN GLEE CLUBS

One of the great holiday traditions in America, the choirs of Morehouse and Spelman Colleges - two of the most prestigious historically black institutions in the nation -- get together to present a spine-tingling concert program. This year's program features the best works of the last several years. It's a joyous celebration of the schools' tradition of singing excellence, with their trademark mixture of spirituals and carols. Korva Coleman hosts.

9 p.m. – 10 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
CHRISTMAS WITH THE PHILADELPHIA SINGERS 2006

This year, the famed ensemble celebrates Christmas on Logan Square with a program of 20th-century music. Host Ed Cunningham shares seasonal sounds with cherished favorites old and new: from a sonorous candlelight procession to a spirited singing of traditional carols with the audience.

Tuesday, December 12

8 p.m. –  9 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
ECHOES OF CHRISTMAS 2006

Dale Warland, the famed music director of one of the world's great choirs, the Dale Warland Singers, hosts a one-hour celebration of Christmas choral music new and old. Drawing from over twenty years of superb annual Christmas concerts by his Singers, Warland and co-host Brian Newhouse retrace treasured classics but also attractive and accessible surprises - perfect for Christmas listening.

9 p.m. – 10 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
CAROLS FOR DANCING

"Carols for Dancing" explores the intimate connection between song and dance in this rich heritage of holiday music. Built around vigorous performances by Renaissonics — an award-winning improvisatory Renaissance dance band that produced new arrangements for this special — the program tells the story of the mid-winter holiday dance tradition with brief, intriguing narratives by host Ellen Kushner.

Wednesday, December 13

8 p.m. – 9 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
CONCORDIA COLLEGE CHRISTMAS CONCERT 2006

Four hundred students participate in the telling of the Christmas story through sacred music, word and art. The Concordia College Orchestra, the bell choirs and the five vocal choirs of the college, led by The Concordia Choir, perform old favorites, and new music for a thoughtful and joyful Christmas experience.

9 p.m. – 10 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
CHRISTMAS WITH CANTUS 2006

One of America 's great professional choirs, the 10-voice a capella men's choir, Cantus, joins host Brian Newhouse for a rare studio performance of Christmas classics. "I Wonder as I Wander," "Silent Night," and "Winter Wonderland" and beautiful new pieces for the season all get the inimitable Cantus treatment: gorgeous men's harmonies in breathtaking new arrangements for the season.

9 p.m. – 10 p.m. KWSU-TV
CHARLOTTE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS FANTASY

This Christmas Fantasy features the performance of the Charlotte Philharmonic Orchestra, Philharmonic Singers, Philharmonic Community Chorus, Eddie Mabry Dancers and the Charlotte City Ballet.

10 p.m. – 11 p.m. KWSU-TV
BETHEL UNIVERSITY FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS 2006

Bethel University’s 50^th year of the Festival of Christmas showcases the passion and precision of exceptional student musicians.  Choir, chorale, orchestra and pipe organ in the beauty of the premiere concert hall acoustics is a portal into the holiday season.

Thursday, December 14

8 p.m. – 10 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
ST. OLAF CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 2006
One of the nation's most cherished holiday celebrations, the St. Olaf Christmas Festival is a service in song and word featuring more than 500 student musicians. Hosted by Brian Newhouse, the broadcast includes hymns, carols, choral works and orchestral selections celebrating the Nativity.

Friday, December 15

10:30 p.m. – 11 p.m. KWSU-TV
THE HOLIDAY TABLE -- Chanukah
Joan Nathan, America’s leading author on Jewish cooking, is preparing Chanukah favorites: The Ultimate Potato Pancake, Homemade Apple Sauce, Fruited Brisket, and Orange , Date and Nut Cake. 

Saturday, December 16

Chanukah Begins

3 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. KWSU-TV
THE HOLIDAY TABLE – Christmas Brunch
Add sparke and fun to the holiday with a brunch menu  of Apple Croissant Bread Pudding with Cranberries, Spinach and Goat Cheese Frittata, Broiled Grapefruit, Oven Baked Bacon with Mustard Brown Sugar and Chocolate Waffles. 

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
THE ARKANSAS TRAVELER: MUSIC AND TALES FROM LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE
There may be no works in all of American literature that better document the musical life of pioneer America so thoroughly as the Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder. This special, suitable for airing any time from Thanksgiving to Easter, features select songs and stories taken from the Little House series. It features musical performances by A Prairie Home Companion regulars Riders in the Sky and other Nashville artists, and readings selected stories from the books read by actress Cherry Jones.

8 p.m. – 10 p.m. KTNW-TV
THE NUTCRACKER

Over the decades, THE NUTCRACKER, with its memorable score by Peter Tchaikovsky, has become the definitive Christmas holiday ballet.  Now over 100 years old, it was adapted by Alexandre Dumas from E.T.A. Hoffman’s tale “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.”  This production of the traditional holiday classic was staged in 2000 and is performed by the Royal Ballet oat the Royal Opera House in London .  The Christmas tree grows with breathtaking splendor, the set design in the Biedereyer style is meticulous and the snow scene is ravishingly beautiful.  

Sunday, December 17

2 p.m. – 3 p.m. KWSU-TV
CHARLOTTE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS FANTASY

This Christmas Fantasy features the performance of the Charlotte Philharmonic Orchestra, Philharmonic Singers, Philharmonic Community Chorus, Eddie Mabry Dancers and the Charlotte City Ballet.

3 p.m. – 4 p.m. KWSU-TV
BETHEL UNIVERSITY FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS 2006

Bethel University’s 50^th year of the Festival of Christmas showcases the passion and precision of exceptional student musicians.  Choir, chorale, orchestra and pipe organ in the beauty of the premiere concert hall acoustics is a portal into the holiday season.

4 p.m. – 6 p.m. KTNW-TV
THE NUTCRACKER

Over the decades, THE NUTCRACKER, with its memorable score by Peter Tchaikovsky, has become the definitive Christmas holiday ballet.  Now over 100 years old, it was adapted by Alexandre Dumas from E.T.A. Hoffman’s tale “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.”  This production of the traditional holiday classic was staged in 2000 and is performed by the Royal Ballet oat the Royal Opera House in London .  The Christmas tree grows with breathtaking splendor, the set design in the Biedereyer style is meticulous and the snow scene is ravishingly beautiful.  

10:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. KTNW-TV
CHANUKAH STORIES

Celebrity storytellers share two popular Chanukah tales – one which takes place on the first night of the eight-day Festival of Lights, the other on the last.  The Tie Man’s Miracle, narrated by actor Jami Gertz (Still Standing), celebrates the true meaning and enduring spirit of the holiday.  The folktale Moishe’s Miracle, as re-told by television veteran Bob Saget (Full House),is chock-full of humor, mystery and delicious latkes in this dnamic new animated special.

Monday, December 18

8 p.m. –  9 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
CHANUKAH: A TIME FOR SUPERHEROES

"Chanukah: A Time for Superheroes" illuminates the connection between ancient heroes and modern-day superheroes. Listeners enjoy insights from Marvel Comics' Stan Lee and DC Comics' Wil Eisner, who describe their humble origins and the backdrop of their Jewish experience that informed Superman, Batman, Spiderman, and Wonder Woman. Listeners also hear from filmmakers Sam Raimi ("Spiderman") and Brian Singer ("X-Men,") from Michael Chabon, the acclaimed author of "The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay," and they visit the studios of Art Spiegelman and the Hanouka brothers, cutting-edge graphic novelists.

9 p.m. – 10 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
CHANUKAH LIGHTS 2006

A perennial NPR favorite, now in its second decade. Four authors explore Hanukkah traditions in original stories commissioned expressly for Chanukah Lights. Hosted by Murray Horwitz and Susan Stamberg.

10:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. KWSU-TV
CHANUKAH STORIES

Celebrity storytellers share two popular Chanukah tales – one which takes place on the first night of the eight-day Festival of Lights, the other on the last.  The Tie Man’s Miracle, narrated by actor Jami Gertz (Still Standing), celebrates the true meaning and enduring spirit of the holiday.  The folktale Moishe’s Miracle, as re-told by television veteran Bob Saget (Full House),is chock-full of humor, mystery and delicious latkes in this dynamic new animated special.

Tuesday, December 19

8 p.m. – 9 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
WELCOME CHRISTMAS! 2006
A perennial broadcast favorite, "Welcome Christmas!", features the Minneapolis-based ensemble, VocalEssence, one of America 's premier choral arts organizations and a regular favorite on A Prairie Home Companion. This year's holiday centerpiece is a tribute to English composer Sir Richard Rodney Bennett, along with favorite carols old and new, including two world premieres.

9 p.m. – 10 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
WINTER DREAMS: ENSEMBLE GALILEI AND NEAL CONAN

Evocative music of the season is performed by the Celtic/chamber group Ensemble Galilei, interspersed with poignant poems of the season read by NPR's Neal Conan. The Celtic/early music crossover ensemble blends Irish, Scottish, and original music with texts from Ogden Nash, Li Young Lee, Mary Oliver, and Jim Harrison.  Ensemble Galilei performs Irish, Scottish, early and original music on a variety of ancient and modern instruments, including the Celtic harp, Scottish small pipes, gamba fiddle, recorders, whistles, and percussion.

Wednesday, December 20

8 p.m. – 9 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
FOOTPRINTS TO PARADISE: A MEDIAEVAL CHRISTMAS

Join host Bill McGlaughlin for  a captivating hour of Christmas stories taken from Britain 's celebrated mystery plays. Mystery plays of old were created by and for ordinary people and were often full of raw humor, domestic disputes and stolen animals. Building on that, the action and humor in "Footprints to Paradise" are non-stop, from shepherds dealing with a thieving housewife to Joseph telling his disbelieving neighbors why his wife is pregnant to women armed with saucepans and ladles charging off to fight Herod.

8 p.m. – 9 p.m. KTNW-TV
CHRISTMAS WITH THE MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR FEATURING RENEE FLEMING AND CLAIRE BLOOM

The renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Orchestra at Temple Square welcome opera superstar and two-time Grammy Award-winner Renee Fleming and acclaimed British actress Claire Bloom for the annual holiday concert.  

9 p.m. - 10 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
MESSIAH

This is the Christmas portion of Handel's great work, recorded at the Church of St. Thomas in New York - just two blocks from the horse-driven carriages of New York's Central Park. The soloists, drawn from the ranks of the Metropolitan Opera, set New York 's standard for Messiah concerts each year. The choir and soloists are joined by Concert Royal whose superb musicians, led by violinist Robert Mealy, play on period instruments and have become an integral part of the city's flourishing early music scene.

9 p.m. – 10 p.m. KWSU-TV
ROBERT WELLS CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

Robert Wells is taped in front of an enthusiastic audience of 9,000 in Gothenburg, Sweden.  Songs include “Run Run Rudolph,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town in a Boogie Woogie Choo Choo Train,” and many more.

10 p.m. – 11 p.m. KWSU-TV
CAROLS FROM KING’S – A CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS

One of the great residential college traditions is the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols held every year on Christmas in the chapel of King’s College at Cambridge University in England .  For millions of people around the world, this beautiful annual service marks the beginning of Christmas.  The Chapel Choir performs a traditional service of carols in the historic church singing many Christmas classics, and some lesser-known carols. 

Thursday, December 21

8 p.m. – 10 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
THE CHRISTMAS REVELS: A CELEBRATION OF THE WINTER SOLSTICE 2006

"The Christmas Revels: A Celebration of the Winter Solstice 2006" is a delightful compilation of country dance tunes, carols, songs and motets excerpted from nine unique Revels celebrations performed last winter across the country. This multicultural Winter Solstice sampler features French-Canadian, Scandinavian, Scottish, Eastern European and English works from the Middle Ages through the 20th century.

10:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. KTNW-TV
CHANUKAH STORIES

Celebrity storytellers share two popular Chanukah tales – one which takes place on the first night of the eight-day Festival of Lights, the other on the last.  The Tie Man’s Miracle, narrated by actor Jami Gertz (Still Standing), celebrates the true meaning and enduring spirit of the holiday.  The folktale Moishe’s Miracle, as re-told by television veteran Bob Saget (Full House),is chock-full of humor, mystery and delicious latkes in this dnamic new animated special.

Friday, December 22

First Day of Winter

8 p.m. – 10 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
A PAUL WINTER SOLSTICE CONCERT

From the cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City , Paul Winter, one of the original World Musicians, is back again with a unique exploration of the solstice tradition in cultures near and far. The Paul Winter Consort is joined by musicians from all over the world, including singer Renato Braz from Brazil, Russia's Dmitri Pokrovsky Ensemble, and woodwind player Paul McCandless from Oregon . Our host is John Schaefer.

9 p.m. – 10 p.m. KTNW-TV
CHRISTMAS AT BELMONT

Hosted by up-and-coming country music artist and Belmont University graduate Josh Turner, this annual concert includes traditional Christmas carols, classical masterworks and lighthearted secular songs.  

10 p.m. – 11 p.m. KTNW-TV
CHRISTMAS WITH THE MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR FEATURING RENEE FLEMING AND CLAIRE BLOOM

The renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Orchestra at Temple Square welcome opera superstar and two-time Grammy Award-winner Renee Fleming and acclaimed British actress Claire Bloom for the annual holiday concert.  

10:30 p.m. – 11 p.m. KTNW-TV
THE HOLIDAY TABLE – Kwaanza
Special guest and author Harriette Cole explains the rich traditions behind Kwaanza and demonstrates Sesame Crisp Crackers, West African Ground Nut Stew, and South Side Okra and Tomatoes. 

Saturday, December 23

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
THE INLAND FOLK CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION WITH DAN MAHER

Once again Dan Maher brings you the best in holiday folk music from his library. He brings out old favorites and new surprises this year to add to a Northwest Public Radio Christmas tradition.

3 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. KWSU-TV
THE HOLIDAY TABLE – Christmas Dinner Greek Style
Star chef Jim Botsacos from New York City ’s acclaimed Molyvos Restaurant makes Taramasalata, Spanikopita, and Roasted Leg of Lamb with Marinated Tomatoes. 

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA CHRISTMAS SHOW

Clarence Fountain and his legendary gospel group have won four Grammy Awards in the last four years. In this program, we join them on stage as they present their own take on the Christmas classics "Silent Night" and "Joy to the World," along with some gospel favorites including "I'm a Soldier in the Army of the Lord."

9 p.m. – 10 p.m. KTNW-TV
HAPPY HOLIDAYS: THE BEST OF THE ANDY WILLIAMS CHIRSTMAS SHOWS

Filling homes with seasonal cheer, the Andy Williams’ Christmas specials became a cherished holiday family tradition.  This special features digitally re-mastered clips that include Williams’ solos on “Silent Night” and “Ave Maria,” as well as performances with his brothers on “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and with the Osmonds on “Silver Bells.”  Interviews with Williams, his son Bobby and Donny Osmond are interwoven with the show clips.

10:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. KWSU-TV
CHANUKAH STORIES

Celebrity storytellers share two popular Chanukah tales – one which takes place on the first night of the eight-day Festival of Lights, the other on the last.  The Tie Man’s Miracle, narrated by actor Jami Gertz (Still Standing), celebrates the true meaning and enduring spirit of the holiday.  The folktale Moishe’s Miracle, as re-told by television veteran Bob Saget (Full House),is chock-full of humor, mystery and delicious latkes in this dynamic new animated special.

Sunday, December 24

Christmas Eve Day

8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
A FESTIVAL OF NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS 2006

Hear a live broadcast from the chapel of King's College in Cambridge, England. Michael Barone hosts the exclusive broadcast of the legendary Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols service of Biblical readings and music as performed by the King's College Choir. This is the program listeners rave about year after year!

10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
A CHANTICLEER CHRISTMAS

An encore presentation of one of NPR's most popular holiday programs. From the beautiful acoustics of St. Vincent's Church in Petaluma, California, inspiring sounds of the season from one of the world's finest choral ensembles... the twelve men of Chanticleer, led by Joseph Jennings. Hosted by Fred Child.

11 .a.m. – Noon Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
SECOND CHANCE CHRISTMAS: A SYMPHONIC STORY

Tune in for this wonderful tale of rebirth in a story about a youth orchestra and chorus on its way to perform a holiday concert at Carnegie Hall. While en route, a terrible Nor' Easter strands the troupe in the tiny, impoverished mining town of Second Chance, West Virginia.

1 p.m. – 2 p.m. KTNW-TV
HAPPY HOLIDAYS: THE BEST OF THE ANDY WILLIAMS CHIRSTMAS SHOWS

Filling homes with seasonal cheer, the Andy Williams’ Christmas specials became a cherished holiday family tradition.  This special features digitally re-mastered clips that include Williams’ solos on “Silent Night” and “Ave Maria,” as well as performances with his brothers on “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and with the Osmonds on “Silver Bells.” 

2 p.m. – 3 p.m. KTNW-TV
CHRISTMAS AT THE HOLLYWOOD PALACE

Hollywood Palace, the last great television variety show aired on ABC from 1964-70.  A high point of each season was the annual Christmas show.  Presented in this special are the finest moments from these shows originally starring Bing Crosby, his family and Perry Como.  This compilation of memorable holiday moments features 15 complete and uncut musical performances.  

2 p.m. – 3 p.m. KWSU-TV
9 p.m. – 10 p.m. KWSU-TV
CHARLOTTE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS FANTASY

This Christmas Fantasy features the performance of the Charlotte Philharmonic Orchestra, Philharmonic Singers, Philharmonic Community Chorus, Eddie Mabry Dancers and the Charlotte City Ballet.

3 p.m. – 4 p.m., 9 p.m. – 10 p.m. KTNW-TV
CHRISTMAS WITH THE MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR FEATURING RENEE FLEMING AND CLAIRE BLOOM

The renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Orchestra at Temple Square welcome opera superstar and two-time Grammy Award-winner Renee Fleming and acclaimed British actress Claire Bloom for the annual holiday concert.  

3 p.m. – 4 p.m. KWSU-TV
BETHEL UNIVERSITY FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS 2006

Bethel University’s 50^th year of the Festival of Christmas showcases the passion and precision of exceptional student musicians.  Choir, chorale, orchestra and pipe organ in the beauty of the premiere concert hall acoustics is a portal into the holiday season.

Sunday, December 24

Christmas Eve

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. KTNW-TV, KWSU-TV
MR. CHRISTMAS

Young father Joel can’t afford to buy his five-year-old daughter the bicycle she’s expecting from Santa Claus, creating a crisis of confidence for him in his role as a father, husband and family breadwinner.  In this uplifting holiday movie, a family learns that a happy Christmas doesn’t depend on material gifts. 

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. KTNW-TV, KWSU-TV
CRICKET ON THE HEARTH

6 p.m. – 7 p.m. KTNW-TV, KWSU-TV
11 p.m. – midnight KWSU-TV
O COME, ALL YE FAITHFUL: CONCORDIA COLLEGE CHRISTMAS CONCERT

7 p.m. – 8 p.m. KTNW-TV
8 p.m. – 9 p.m. KWSU-TV
11 p.m. – midnight KTNW-TV
CAROLS FROM KING’S – A CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS

One of the great residential college traditions is the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols held every year on Christmas in the chapel of King’s College at Cambridge University in England .  For millions of people around the world, this beautiful annual service marks the beginning of Christmas.  The Chapel Choir performs a traditional service of carols in the historic church singing many Christmas classics, and some lesser-known carols. 

8 p.m. – 9 p.m. KTNW-TV
CHRISTMAS IN YELLOWSTONE

NATURE journeys in the footsteps of the first explorers of this national park to present breathtaking landscapes which frame intimate scenes of wolves and coyotes, elk and bison, bears and otters as they make their way through the challenging winter season in Yellowstone.  From the unique crystals of individual snowflakes to the grand sweep of Yellwstone’s Hayden Valley , this is a Christmas like no other..

10 p.m. – 11 p.m. KTNW-TV
A ST. OLAF CHRISTMAS IN NORWAY

This holiday special features the St.Olaf choir in concert in the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, Norway, one of the oldest and grandest gothic churches in the world, first begun in 1070.  The special is an evening of traditional Christmas hymns sung in both Norwegian and English.  Featured performers include the exquisite voices of the St.Olaf Choir from St.Olaf college in Northfield, MN; the girls choir of Nidaros Cathedral, Jentekor; and famed Norwegian mezzo soprano Randi Stene.

10 p.m. – 11 p.m. KWSU-TV
ROBERT WELLS CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

Robert Wells is taped in front of an enthusiastic audience of 9,000 in Gothenburg, Sweden.  Songs include “Run Run Rudolph,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town in a Boogie Woogie Choo Choo Train,” and many more.

Monday, December 25

Christmas

NPR & Classical Music Service
NORTHWEST PUBLIC RADIO PRESENTS
CLASSICAL MUSIC FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

Enjoy beautiful music all day long as a backdrop to your festivities. Whether you love contemplative  music, or rousing anthems, there will be something to soothe and inspire you.

7 a.m. – 8 a.m. KTNW-TV, KWSU-TV
CRICKET ON THE HEARTH

8 a.m. – 9 a.m. KTNW-TV
A ST. OLAF CHRISTMAS IN NORWAY

This holiday special features the St.Olaf choir in concert in the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, Norway, one of the oldest and grandest gothic churches in the world, first begun in 1070.  The special is an evening of traditional Christmas hymns sung in both Norwegian and English.  Featured performers include the exquisite voices of the St.Olaf Choir from St.Olaf college in Northfield, MN; the girls choir of Nidaros Cathedral, Jentekor; and famed Norwegian mezzo soprano Randi Stene.

9 a.m. – 10 a.m. KTNW-TV, KWSU-TV
4 p.m. – 5 p.m. KTNW-TV, KWSU-TV
O COME, ALL YE FAITHFUL: CONCORDIA COLLEGE CHRISTMAS CONCERT

10 a.m. – 11 a.m. KTNW-TV, KWSU-TV
3 p.m. – 4 p.m. KTNW-TV, KWSU-TV
CAROLS FROM KING’S – A CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS

One of the great residential college traditions is the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols held every year on Christmas in the chapel of King’s College at Cambridge University in England .  For millions of people around the world, this beautiful annual service marks the beginning of Christmas.  The Chapel Choir performs a traditional service of carols in the historic church singing many Christmas classics, and some lesser-known carols. 

11 a.m. – Noon KWSU-TV
BETHEL UNIVERSITY FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS 2006

Bethel University’s 50^th year of the Festival of Christmas showcases the passion and precision of exceptional student musicians.  Choir, chorale, orchestra and pipe organ in the beauty of the premiere concert hall acoustics is a portal into the holiday season.

Noon. – 1 p.m. KTNW-TV
CHRISTMAS WITH THE MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR FEATURING RENEE FLEMING AND CLAIRE BLOOM

The renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Orchestra at Temple Square welcome opera superstar and two-time Grammy Award-winner Renee Fleming and acclaimed British actress Claire Bloom for the annual holiday concert.  

12:30 p.m. – 1 p.m. KWSU-TV
7:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. KWSU-TV
CHANUKAH STORIES

Celebrity storytellers share two popular Chanukah tales – one which takes place on the first night of the eight-day Festival of Lights, the other on the last.  The Tie Man’s Miracle, narrated by actor Jami Gertz (Still Standing), celebrates the true meaning and enduring spirit of the holiday.  The folktale Moishe’s Miracle, as re-told by television veteran Bob Saget (Full House),is chock-full of humor, mystery and delicious latkes in this dnamic new animated special.

1 p.m. – 3 p.m. KTNW-TV, KWSU-TV
9 p.m. – 11 p.m. KWSU-TV
THE NUTCRACKER

Over the decades, THE NUTCRACKER, with its memorable score by Peter Tchaikovsky, has become the definitive Christmas holiday ballet.  Now over 100 years old, it was adapted by Alexandre Dumas from E.T.A. Hoffman’s tale “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.”  This production of the traditional holiday classic was staged in 2000 and is performed by the Royal Ballet oat the Royal Opera House in London .  The Christmas tree grows with breathtaking splendor, the set design in the Biedereyer style is meticulous and the snow scene is ravishingly beautiful.  

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. KTNW-TV, KWSU-TV
A HOLIDAY MUSIC GALA

Singers from the University of Cental Arkansas perform traditional carols, festive holiday songs and unique arrangements of spiritual hymns including chamber pieces from the 14^th, 15^th and 20^th centuries, favorites “O Come All Ye Faithful, “ “Away in a Manger” and “Joy to the World.”  Also hear renditions of “The Carol of the Bells,” Bogorditse Devo” and “A Musicological Journey Through the Twelve Days of Christmas.”   The program concludes with selections from Handel’s Messiah and a spirited finale of “children Go Where I Send Thee.”

6 p.m. – 7 p.m. KWSU-TV
BETHEL UNIVERSITY FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS 2006

Bethel University’s 50^th year of the Festival of Christmas showcases the passion and precision of exceptional student musicians.  Choir, chorale, orchestra and pipe organ in the beauty of the premiere concert hall acoustics is a portal into the holiday season.

7 p.m. – 8 p.m. KTNW-TV
CHRISTMAS IN YELLOWSTONE

NATURE journeys in the footsteps of the first explorers of this national park to present breathtaking landscapes which frame intimate scenes of wolves and coyotes, elk and bison, bears and otters as they make their way through the challenging winter season in Yellowstone.  From the unique crystals of individual snowflakes to the grand sweep of Yellwstone’s Hayden Valley , this is a Christmas like no other..

Tuesday, December 26

First Day of Kwanzaa

8 p.m. – 9 p.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
A SEASON'S GRIOT 2006

Host Madafo Lloyd Wilson highlights the work of the Kings and Queens of Storytelling, a collective whose members artfully demonstrate their storytelling craft. The collective's founder, Mitch Capel, affectionately known as Gran'daddy Junebug, tells his stories in rhyme. Queen Nur shares stories in forms found throughout the African Diaspora. Wilson shares a work of his own in multiple voices, presenting it as a cross between storytelling and a radio play. Opening with a poem by Beverly Fields Burnette, the program features original music throughout.

Sunday, December 31

New Year’s Eve

9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
THE CAPITOL STEPS NEW YEAR:  POLITICS TAKES A HOLIDAY!

From the ridiculous to the even more ridiculous, all the events of 2006 are covered in one fell swoop.  Expect general ridiculousness.

Monday, January 1, 2007

10 a.m. – Noon Northwest Public Radio, NPR & Classical Music Service
NEW YEAR'S DAY FROM VIENNA

Northwest Public Radio takes you to the Golden Hall of the Musikverein in Vienna for the most popular classical music concert in the world: the Vienna Philharmonic New Year's Day concert. Expect another program of luscious Viennese waltzes, polkas and marches to ring in your new year.  Korva Coleman hosts.