In just a few weeks, the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra will bring festive cheer to a decked-out Mount Pisgah Church. Returning with its annual Christmas concerts, this year’s holiday performances — part of the orchestra’s IMAGINE: Your Playlist series — will pay special homage to JCSO founder and former Music Director J. Wayne Baughman.
IMAGINE: From Our Family to Yours
“It’s going to have a lot to do with Wayne’s legacy and what he loved about the community. But it’s also about where we’re going forward,” said JCSO Music Director Henry Cheng.
The orchestra is also set to play “Farandole” by French composer Bizet — one of Baughman’s favorite songs celebrating the themes of family and coming together to overcome challenges.
Cheng’s vision for this year’s event veers away from the traditional black-tie formality, instead embracing a relaxed celebration of the holidays. One way he hopes to create this atmosphere is through encouraging participation in a sing-along.
Image from of the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra website.
This year marks the first Christmas Voices of Johns Creek community sing-along, an open call for the community to sing Christmas carols along with the Johns Creek Chorale. Volunteers would need to attend a rehearsal beforehand and can attend both concerts for free.
“[The concert] should be a place where people can come and have fun. My dream is that the whole audience just sings together,” Cheng said.
During the show, audiences can expect guest appearances from Santa and his Elves, dancers and a drum line. And the orchestra will perform beloved Christmas classics, medleys of songs and tunes from the Nutcracker, in collaboration with Fleetwood Dance Theatre Company.
“It’s a very low-key, fun, family–friendly time. It’s going to be a big party,” Cheng said.
Written By MITALI SINGH on Dec 5, 2025
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