Festival Orchestra de Las Cruces presents The Hometown Holiday “Pops” Concert.

Celebrate the magic and spirit of Christmas with an unforgettable evening of music! This special concert features selections from Handel’s beloved Messiah, timeless Christmas classics, and festive favorites for the whole family. Festival Orchestra de Las Cruces brings together the grandeur of classical music and the joyful energy of the holiday season.

Featured Artists

• Annie Pennies - Soprano

• Karlten Friedrich - Tenor

• Pancho Romero “Brass Souls” - Brass Choir

Concert details

• Date & time: Sunday November 29th at 3:00 pm

• Venue: St Paul’s United Methodist Church

  225 W Griggs Ave

  Las Cruces, NM 88005

• Duration: Approximately 90 minutes, including a short intermission

• Seating: General Admission Open Seating

• Dress: Festive or smart casual

Ticket information

• Single tickets available for adults, seniors, students, and youth

• Early purchase recommended—holiday performances often sell out

Why attend

• Experience the warmth and excitement of live orchestral music in a festive setting

• Create lasting holiday memories with loved ones

• Support beautiful local music and keep opportunities like this in Las Cruces

Purchase and box office

• Box office hours and phone ordering available at the venue

• Email or in-person assistance for accessibility accommodations and group sales

• To purchase tickets over the phone or in person call 575-642-4819 or 575-640-3844

Join us for an unforgettable Christmas concert—an evening of radiant music that captures the joy and spirit of the season.

Live CD & DVD Recording — September 6, 2026

Celebrate the spirit, history, and musical legacy of America with An All-American Concert, a spectacular live performance by the Festival Orchestra de Las Cruces, conducted by acclaimed music director Lonnie Klein. Featuring internationally renowned pianist Ilya Yakushev and distinguished community leader and narrator Fernando Macías, this special concert brings together some of the most beloved and inspiring works in American orchestral music.

From the stirring patriotic energy of John Williams’ Summon the Heroes and Superman March to the dramatic excitement of Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story selections, this program captures the diversity, passion, and imagination of the American musical experience. Experience the emotional power of Williams’ unforgettable Theme from Schindler’s List, featuring violin soloist Brigid McCarthy, followed by Aaron Copland’s moving Lincoln Portrait, narrated by Fernando Macías—a powerful musical tribute to Abraham Lincoln and the ideals that helped shape our nation.

The concert reaches its dazzling finale with George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, featuring virtuoso pianist Ilya Yakushev in a thrilling fusion of classical tradition and American jazz. Also featured is Morton Gould’s The American Frontier, bringing the concert’s celebration of America’s musical and cultural heritage to life.

Under the direction of Lonnie Klein, whose distinguished career includes decades of artistic leadership and international conducting experience, the Festival Orchestra de Las Cruces delivers an unforgettable performance filled with grandeur, emotion, and American pride.

Bring the concert home! This special CD and DVD recording preserves the excitement and artistry of the September 6, 2026, performance, allowing you to relive the music, the memorable solo performances, and the spirit of this exceptional evening. Whether you are a longtime orchestral music enthusiast or simply love the timeless sounds of America, An All-American Concert is a wonderful addition to your music collection and a meaningful gift for family and friends.

Featuring:

• Lonnie Klein — Conductor

• Ilya Yakushev — Piano

• Fernando Macías — Narrator

• Brigid McCarthy — Violin

• Festival Orchestra de Las Cruces

A celebration of American music, history, and artistry—captured live for you to enjoy again and again.