At Madison Symphony, Everyone Is Home for the Holidays

DeMain rounds up his Madison Symphony Christmas community   For 26 years now, John DeMain has put together his “Madison Symphony Christmas” like a time-honored recipe, and it satisfies his guests’ expectations even as he tweaks it with a little bit different spice each time. It’s no mean trick — after all, you have to…

Tidings of Great Joy (for the 25th time)

“Madison Symphony Christmas” replicates its winning formula   I’ve only heard the last nine editions of the “Madison Symphony Christmas,” so I’m not sure exactly how long it took music director John DeMain to hit upon his winning formula. Last weekend was the 25th edition during his tenure, and perhaps the most impressive thing about…

The Presence of All Means Presents for All

The 24th “Madison Symphony Christmas” treats us royally   As we get older and families often branch out, we often experience Christmas and holiday gatherings that are wonderful, but tinged with a little sadness that someone we love is missing. One celebration that always brings the whole gang back together is the “Madison Symphony Christmas,”…

Snow or No, “Madison Symphony Christmas” Is Here

DeMain and the usual huge guest roster launch musical holiday cheer Ok, I’ll admit it: After attending my seventh consecutive “A Madison Symphony Christmas” (out of the 23 that John DeMain has led as music director of the MSO), this feels more like a report than a review. After all, who critiques the turkey and…