Itkin included several unusual arrangements of traditional favorites. One of the best was a jazzy, bright "Frosty the Snowman"/"Jingle Bells" mix featuring the Master Singers. Another was Itkin's own arrangement of music to accompany "The Night Before Christmas."

The 80-member Master Singers added much to a complex, but well-executed, offering by the orchestra.

Tenor soloist Matt Newman brought a contemporary song to the evening with a wistful but strong "Believe" from "The Polar Express."

Baritone Tod Fitzpatrick and soprano Joan Sobel offered a stirring "I Wonder As I Wander," along with other carols, and joined the Master Singers for a rendition of "Do You Hear What I Hear?" that was upbeat but reverent.

The 100-plus member University Children's Chorale performed "I'm Getting Nuttin' for Christmas." Their sweet, pure voices put the proper perspective on other songs through the show.

The orchestra was still the star of the day, though, from its engaging opening holiday medley, heavy on the brass, to "The Nutcracker's" "Waltz of the Flowers," with skilled harp playing in the vibrant selection.

The musicians' roster for these shows included a new percussionist in Itkin. He left the conductor's podium to control the wooden flapper during a bouncy, grand "Sleigh Ride."

Later, he took a turn at the grand piano close to center stage, accompanying mezzo-soprano Leslie Harper's rich "Some Children See Him" for another highlight.

As has been true for every year since it began a decade ago, the Philharmonic concerts were an easy and elegant start to the holiday season.