Joseph Jennings is widely regarded as one of the choral world's top conductors and music directors, clinicians and arrangers. He joined the renowned a capella group Chanticleer in 1983 as a countertenor, and shortly thereafter assumed position as music director. Jennings has performed at the most prestigious festivals and concert halls throughout the United States, Europe and Asia, including  appearances at the Salzburg Festival, the International Josquin Symposium, the Schleswig-Holstein Festival, Symphony Hall in Boston, Alice Tully Hall and Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center and The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Jennings' versatility has earned him many types of positions: lead singer/pianist with jazz ensembles; music director and pianist for churches, theater, children's theater and opera productions; guest conductor; professor; and director of clinic demonstrations and workshops. 

O Holy Night, the famous Christmas carol by Adolphe Adam, is originally based on a French poem by Placide Cappeau. The text reflects the birth of Christ as humanity’s redemption. This arrangement by Joseph Jennings puts an acapella twist on this traditional tune. With moments of chromaticism and complex rhythms, this piece is an exciting and clever way to present a beautiful Christmas classic. 

O holy night, the stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Saviour’s birth;
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
'Till he appeared and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn;

Fall on your knees, Oh hear the angel voices!
O night divine! O night when Christ was born.
O night, O holy night, O night divine.

Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming;
With glowing hearts by his cradle we stand:
So, led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,
Here come the wise men from Orient land,
The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger,
In all our trials born to be our friend;

He knows our need, To our weakness no stranger!
Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend!
Behold your King! your King! before him bend!

Program notes by Matt Niess, Matt Oltman, Vince Peterson, Dina Spyropoulos, Noah Wagar  and Drew Young.