KPBS Radio will broadcast these holiday specials throughout the month of December:
"A Paul Winter Solstice Concert"
Airs December 21, 2010 at 7 p.m.
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 Russia's Dimitri Pokrovsky Ensemble and gospel singer Theresa Thomasson.
"Tinsel Tales: NPR Christmas Favorites"
Airs December 24, 2010 at 9 a.m. & December 25, 2010 at 3 p.m.
This year a radio tradition continues - stories from the NPR archives that touch on the meaning of Christmas. David Sedaris, Bailey White, John Henry Faulk--these and other NPR voices, past and present, tell stories of the season.
"A Chanticleer Christmas"
Airs December 24, 2010 at 7 p.m.
America's finest male chorus celebrates Christmas, recorded live in San Francisco and hosted by Brian Newhouse.
"This American Life: The Comedians Of Christmas Comedy Special"
Airs December 24 at 10 a.m. & December 25, 2010 at 12 p.m.
"The Comedians of Christmas Comedy Special," TAL's first ever all-comedy hour, recorded live on stage. But when you think about it, are there actually any holiday jokes? Not really. We set out to remedy that by enlisting some professional comedians to tell hilarious (but occasionally sad) stories about this magical time of year.
"Lessons and Carols from Washington National Cathedral"
Airs December 25, 2010 at 4 a.m.
Annual, one-hour special broadcast from the National Cathedral with the Cathedral choirs and Cathedral Choral Society, the Bishop of Washington, Dean and canons of the cathedral.
"St. Olaf Christmas Festival"
Airs December 25, 2010 at 5 a.m.
A service in song and word that has become one of the nation's most cherished holiday celebrations. Tickets to the event, which takes place at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, are always gone months in advance. The festival includes hymns, carols, choral works, and orchestral selections celebrating the Nativity and featuring more than 500 student musicians who are members of five choirs and the St. Olaf Orchestra.
"This American Life Christmas Spectacular"
Airs December 25, 2010 at 1 p.m.
A full-throttle, show-stopping, no-holds-barred Christmas Spectacular! Shedding the crusty old Christmas stories of yore, this year we bring you brand new holiday classics. With special musical guest Marah!
"Holiday All Songs Considered"
Airs December 25, 2010 at 2 p.m.
The wacky holiday tradition continues! The not-so-plump-but-jolly Santa Bob and his cantankerous elves are in their workshop, trading holiday cheer and barbs (mostly barbs). They're checking the list for the best fresh holiday songs from emerging and breakout bands. Check out Bob Boilen and friends as they host the second "All Songs Considered" holiday special from NPR Music.
