Ocean Grove, NJ – As the holiday season begins to glow across New Jersey, St. Paul’s Church in Ocean Grove welcomed the Atlantic Wind Ensemble for a festive Christmas concert on November 23, 2025. Known for its warm acoustics, beautiful organ, and inviting atmosphere, St. Paul’s provided an intimate setting for music lovers to enjoy an evening of holiday classics and seasonal favorites. For those interested in discovering more live music in New Jersey, our music guide is a great resource for concerts, ensembles, and holiday performances across the state.
Unlike the usual grand scale concerts held at Ocean Grove’s Great Auditorium, St. Paul’s offered a more personal experience, allowing audiences to connect closely with both the performers and the music. The Atlantic Wind Ensemble, a well-established local group with around 50 talented musicians, performed under the direction of conductor Eliot Prowse, whose distinctive presence and bushy mustache made him easy to spot from anywhere in the church. Announcer Ted Freeman guided the audience through the program and conducted Leroy Anderson’s “A Christmas Festival,” setting a lively and festive tone for the evening.
The highlight of the program was the ambitious performance of Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite,” conducted by percussionist Mike Wazeka, who stepped away from his usual post to lead this multi-movement Russian masterpiece. While a few moments were slightly rough, the ensemble delivered a spirited and energetic rendition, showcasing both individual talent and collective harmony. A standout was the piccolo soloist, whose delicate performance evoked the whimsical magic of the Sugar Plum Fairy and added sparkle to the evening.
Over the course of the night, the ensemble performed 14 selections without an intermission, a testament to their endurance and dedication. From classical pieces to seasonal favorites, the program offered variety and charm, keeping audiences engaged from start to finish. In a playful nod to cultural diversity, conductor Prowse included a “Chanukah Festival Overture” in the lineup, adding a unique twist to the traditional holiday repertoire.
St. Paul’s Pastor Joe Tiedemann welcomed attendees with warmth and hospitality, further enhancing the community spirit of the evening. The church’s intimate setting, combined with the ensemble’s vibrant performance, created an unforgettable holiday experience for all present.
For those looking to explore more performances from the Atlantic Wind Ensemble and other local music events, our music directory offers schedules, concert previews, and links to tickets, making it easier to plan an evening of live music in New Jersey.
The Atlantic Wind Ensemble’s St. Paul’s concert reminded audiences why Ocean Grove remains a hub for musical excellence, blending tradition, talent, and holiday cheer in a setting that truly celebrates the magic of music.
