Dears Friends and Families,
While the beginning of the holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year, with last-minute shopping, final concerts, holiday gatherings, and travel, it also brings moments when schedules begin to slow down, creating time for connection with family and friends. As the song reminds us, it truly is the most wonderful time of the year.
Recently, my husband and I had the opportunity to spend time in New York City during the holidays before traveling to Massachusetts to be with family. New York City buzzes with the nonstop energy of crowded sidewalks, glowing lights, and a rhythm that feels both hectic and magical. The Rockefeller Center tree stands as a shared symbol of tradition, the decorated windows at Macy’s and Saks draw people together, and the sound of music fills the air. Experiencing the 100th Anniversary of the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, along with concerts held at St. John’s Cathedral, offered moments of reflection and inspiration. These experiences highlighted how tradition is sustained through dedication, artistry, and values—the same values that resonate deeply with our own organization as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Columbus Children’s Choir.
That spirit of tradition and continuity has been present throughout our own work this year. Our Adagio, Allegretto, and Vivace choirs shared the joy of the season through their numerous caroling performances, filling our community with warmth and holiday cheer. In addition, New World Singers had the honor of continuing the tradition of joining the Columbus Symphony in their Holiday Pops performances, standing alongside professional musicians in a celebration of music that has become a cherished part of the season. These moments remind us that traditions endure because people show up, year after year, committed to excellence and to one another.
We also celebrated as New World Singers was named winner of the Youth Division at the Bratislava International Choral Competition, earned a Gold Award at the Musica Orbis Choral Competition in Prague, and received first place in the 2025 American Prize in Choral Performance, Youth Division, securing their fourth national title. These achievements reflect not only musical excellence but the strength of a program built over three decades, one that is rooted in growth, teamwork, and the highest artistic standards.
All of this is made possible by our singers, families, donors, and patrons. Your generosity and belief sustain this legacy, ensuring that young musicians continue to find belonging, purpose, and opportunity through music.
As we reflect on this season of gratitude and celebration, I invite you to consider making a year-end gift to Columbus Children’s Choir. In honor of our 30th anniversary, all gifts are being matched dollar for dollar, doubling your impact and helping us sustain the traditions that shape our singers’ lives while investing in the voices still to come.
As we move into the New Year and continue our 30th anniversary season, may we honor what has come before while continuing to build a future rich with possibility, connection, and shared joy in making music together.
Wishing you a holiday season filled with music, laughter, and time with those who matter most.
With deepest gratitude and warmest wishes,
Jeanne Wohlgamuth,
Artistic Director
