Carols Ancient And New

Ragazzi Continuo, the men’s a cappella choir composed of alumni of the acclaimed Ragazzi Boys Chorus, invites audiences to its joyous holiday concert, “Carols Ancient and New.” This remarkable vocal ensemble will present a thrilling and festive program that seamlessly melds classic Christmas favorites from around the world and throughout time. “Carols Ancient and New” will play 2pm, Saturday, December 12 at All Saints Episcopal Church, 555 Waverley St., Palo Alto, 7pm, Saturday, December 19 at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 178 Clinton St., Redwood City, and 4pm, Sunday, December 20 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 1111 O’Farrell St., San Francisco. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.RagazziContinuo.org or at the door on the day of the event.

Ragazzi Continuo will celebrate the diversity of Christmas music with pieces including the American Spiritual “Glory Hallelu!” by Don Besig, and prolific composer Robert Kyr’s transfixing setting of “Balulalow.” Other beloved carols like David Conte’s sprightly arrangement of “Pat-a-pan” and Phillip Lawson’s haunting interpretation of “Veni, Veni Emmanuel” will contrast with work from around the world, including the traditional Nigerian Christmas song, “Betelehemu.”

Ragazzi Continuo was formed in September 2010 and now consists of fourteen choristers, all of whom sang in Ragazzi Boys Chorus during their formative years. All of the members participated in their college choirs, but finding a post-college men’s chorus that achieved the level they thrived under as Ragazzi boys proved challenging. Thus Ragazzi Continuo was born, and is currently comprised of members whose work finds them practicing law, teaching voice, working in the tech industry, and more. Their love of music and years of training are evident in their stellar performances.