Epic Music and Holiday Magic: Two Unforgettable Nights at Abravanel Hall with Jared Harding Wilson

by Jared Harding Wilson

This December has been a whirlwind of holiday joy, music, and meaningful moments! My wife Sarah and I found ourselves at the iconic Abravanel Hall in downtown Salt Lake City not once, but twice in one week—on Tuesday, December 9, and Friday, December 12. Both concerts were absolutely amazing, each in their own way, reminding us how blessed we are to live in Utah with access to such incredible talent. We’re both a little tired from the packed schedule, but our hearts are full as we wrap up this festive season. Almost there!

Tuesday, December 9: Millennial Choirs & Orchestras – “Silent Night” Christmas Concert

We went to hear one of our dear friends sing in a choir, not really knowing what to expect. “Oh, another choir concert in Utah,” we thought. Boy, were we in for a surprise! This was the Millennial Choirs & Orchestras (MCO) production titled Silent Night, and it was truly EPIC.

Hundreds of voices from multiple choirs—of many ages—joined a full symphony orchestra on stage. At one point, there was even a guitar choir adding to the magic! The arrangements, many created or co-created by one of the directors, transformed classic Christmas songs into sweeping, cinematic experiences. I love when familiar tunes get that “epic” treatment—building tension, layering instruments, and delivering powerful crescendos.

What touched me deepest was how the director intentionally weaves sections of “darkness” into the music. It’s a little eerie at times, almost scary, but it’s purposeful: to heighten the contrast so the arrival of light feels even more triumphant and hopeful. As someone who has walked through profound darkness in my own life, this resonated deeply. I’m getting teary-eyed just recalling it. The music mirrored the promise that after the storm comes the dawn—and wow, did the light deliver! It was breathtaking, soul-stirring, and a perfect celebration of the Savior’s birth.

We attended with a mutual friend, and the three of us left buzzing with excitement. If you’ve never experienced MCO, put it on your list—it’s an unforgettable holiday tradition.

A Message of Hope for Those in Darkness

That theme of darkness giving way to light stayed with me. If you’re currently facing trials, adversity, or a season of deep darkness, please know this: the light will come. Just as the sun faithfully rises after the longest night, happiness, goodness, and peace can—and will—return to your life.

I’ve been there, in places that felt hopeless and endless. But through faith, time, and reaching out to lift others, the dawn broke for me. One of the most powerful ways to invite light back in is by seeking to bless the lives of those around you. Service has a way of healing the giver as much as the receiver. Hold on. Keep turning toward the Savior. The promise of morning is real.

Friday, December 12: Utah Symphony – Dvořák and Beethoven Masterpieces

Just three days later, we were back at Abravanel Hall for a holiday mixer event connected to my work. This time, we were treated to the renowned Utah Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Pietari Inkinen, with acclaimed pianist Shai Wosner as soloist.

The program featured:

•  Unsuk Chin’s energetic subito con forza (a modern piece celebrating Beethoven’s 250th anniversary influences).

•  Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3 in C minor, where Wosner’s brilliant playing shone alongside the orchestra’s precision.

•  Dvořák’s dramatic Symphony No. 7 in D minor, full of passionate melodies inspired by the composer’s Czech heritage and his admiration for Brahms.

A quick note on these composers:

•  Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827): The legendary German genius who bridged classical and romantic eras. Despite progressing deafness that left him completely deaf in his later years, he composed some of history’s most profound works, including this concerto—defying personal adversity with unbreakable spirit.

•  Antonín Dvořák (1841–1904): The beloved Czech composer known for blending folk influences with symphonic grandeur. His Symphony No. 7 is considered one of his finest, reflecting his nationalist pride and emotional depth.

Hearing these timeless pieces live reinforced how Utah is brimming with world-class talent. What a gift!

The Stunning Chihuly Glass in the Lobby

No visit to Abravanel Hall is complete without admiring the breathtaking Dale Chihuly glass sculpture hanging in the lobby—a massive, colorful chandelier-like installation that glows with vibrant tendrils of glass. Seeing it took Sarah and me right back to our visit to the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum in Seattle, Washington. That trip was magical, and this piece brought those memories flooding back. Art like this elevates the whole experience!

What a week of music, light, and holiday cheer! As Christmas approaches, I’m grateful for these experiences that remind us of hope, resilience, and the beauty all around. Wishing you a season filled with similar joys.

How about you? Have you attended any holiday concerts this year? Share in the comments—I’d love to hear!