A History of ‘Christmas at Belmont’

The evolution and impact of Belmont’s cherished holiday tradition

For over two decades, “Christmas at Belmont” has grown from a humble Christmas program to an internationally celebrated event showcasing Belmont’s world-class musical talent. 

From Modest Beginnings to Premiere Event 

When Associate Professor of Music Dr. Jane Warren joined Belmont in 1998, the University’s holiday programming was a modest affair — a traditional concert featuring classical ensembles and readings. The turning point came in 1999, as faculty began to envision a program that would reflect the variety and depth of Belmont’s School of Music. By 2000, the inaugural iteration of “Christmas at Belmont” was born. 

"We wanted to show people what we really were as a School of Music and our different types of ensembles and all the different genres,” Warren said. 

The well-received response to the program’s expanded vision emboldened leadershipto pursue a dream of televising the event. The program first aired in 2000 on Nashville’s local Channel 4 network with alumni co-hosts Josh Turner and his wife Jennifer.  

By 2003, “Christmas at Belmont” partnered with Nashville PBS, allowing Belmont to gain access to holiday hearths across America while elevating its reputation as a center for musical excellence. International icon and singer Brenda Lee hosted the first syndicated PBS airing, marking the beginning of Belmont’s decades-long partnership with the national network which came to a close in 2023.   

Over the years, musical guest hosts have brought an extra layer of anticipation and appeal to the show. Former hosts include Trisha Yearwood, Denise Graves, Sheryl Crow, CeCe Winans and Michael W. Smith, among others.  

In 2024, “Christmas at Belmont: Live from Nashville” will embark on an exciting new journey with its global streaming debut on Prime Video and Amazon Music on Twitch for the holiday season.  

“‘Christmas at Belmont’ is about the birth of Christ and the hope that God coming to earth brings to our world. This perfectly aligns with our Christ-centered focus as a university,” said Dr. Stephen Eaves, dean of the College of Music and Performing Arts. “Our new partnership with Amazon to stream the show to a global audience is such a rich opportunity. The excitement lies in seeing how God will use this beautiful Christmas tradition from Belmont to inspire and give hope to a broader audience across the world.” 

The Evolving Venue of "Christmas at Belmont"  

The “Christmas at Belmont” stage has evolved to match the growing viewership from local to national to global audiences. The first concerts were held on campus in the Massey Performing Arts Center and then moved to Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center in 2007. The show made its home with the Schermerhorn for years until it returned to campus in 2022 to brighten the majestic stage of the Fisher Center for Performing Arts.  

Showcasing Artistic Collaboration, Variety and Excellence 

Collaborative efforts and keen attention to detail go into crafting each show, with planning beginning nine months leading to the opening curtain. The program’s musical variety is its hallmark, featuring classical and an array of commercial styles including bluegrass, jazz, gospel, pop, country and other select ensembles that have evolved alongside the University’s expanding talent pool. 

"Christmas at Belmont” also reflects the expertise and vision of its leadership. Dr. Jeffery Ames has served as artistic director since 2008. Under his direction, the show continues to captivate audiences year after year, transforming a recurring holiday performance into an eagerly anticipated annual event.   

The show's professional caliber results from innovative production changes, including streamlined logistical operations and outsourcing postproduction to trusted partners. Today, the production is a fine-tuned machine, which is particularly important during taping years that require seamless transitions and minimal retakes to make the show as enjoyable for the live audience as it is for viewers at home.  

A Vision for the Future 

As “Christmas at Belmont” steps into the international spotlight, its future is as bright as its storied past. For Belmont’s students, the show remains a transformative experience –– an opportunity to perform at the highest level and to represent the University’s rich musical heritage. For audiences, it continues to be a source of inspiration, joy and connection — a celebration of the season that bridges cultures, genres and generations. 

“Over the years we have been able to develop a musical celebration that resonates with a variety of people regardless of their musical preferences,” Eaves said. “Music is a natural partner with Christmas and the holidays. All the music focuses on hope and the message of Christmas. We think the variety of musical styles, words and emotions reflected in the show are key to igniting memories and inspiring audiences with hope –– growing into a rich tradition that is an expected part of our Christmas celebration. This is the transformative power of music!” 

With its global streaming debut on Prime Video and Amazon Music on Twitch this year, “Christmas at Belmont” promises to continue its tradition of excellence, bringing the spirit of the season to homes around the world while solidifying Belmont’s role as a leader in music education and performance.