RSNO Christmas Concert featuring The Snowman

We begin this festive afternoon with the playful sounds of Consider the Penguin, a light-hearted opener that sets a cheerful tone before we move into a sequence of traditional seasonal music. You will hear the orchestra join forces with a large choral assembly for The Twelve Days of Christmas, where we can listen for the different textures of the various vocal ranges involved. The centrepiece of the event is the screening of The Snowman. As the animation plays, you will hear the orchestra provide a live, synchronised accompaniment to the visuals. Listen for the famous, soaring melody during the flight sequence, which often feels more immediate when played by a full ensemble rather than through a television speaker. The music follows the narrative arc of the story, from the excitement of the first snowfall to the quiet, poignant ending, with the live narration guiding you through each scene of the film.

The Royal Scottish National Orchestra is one of the country's leading symphonic ensembles, widely recognised for their versatility and frequent collaborations with vocal groups. Joining them is a significant gathering of singers from the RSNO Chorus, the Chorus Academy, and several youth and training choirs, representing a broad spectrum of local vocal talent. Conducted by Karen Ní Bhroin, the performance also features the voice of narrator Hugh Dennis. Together, they bring a wealth of experience in blending live music with storytelling, often performing in the major concert halls across Scotland to audiences of all ages.

This performance takes place at the Music Hall in Aberdeen and has a total duration of approximately 120 minutes. It is a particularly good choice if you are visiting the concert hall for the first time, as the inclusion of a film and familiar melodies makes for a relaxed atmosphere. The venue does not enforce a specific dress code, and most guests tend to wear smart-casual clothing. Given the length and the visual element of the animation, it is well-suited for those looking for a traditional seasonal outing that remains accessible and easy to follow.