Music of the Illumination
In addition to the classical music associated with Christmas, music from the traditions associated with Indo-Persian gardens and Samuel Untermyer has been selected for the Illumination at Untermyer Gardens. Ancient Persia (550 BCE) was Zoroastrian. Its music may sound strange to many Western ears, but it would have been heard in Persian gardens for over a thousand years. As Persia gradually became Muslim, new music evolved from that tradition. Jewish music reflects the heritage of Samuel Untermyer as well as the ancient story of the Garden of Eden in the Book of Genesis. Hindu music is included, as it would have been heard in the monumental gardens of Mughal India. C
Volunteer
If you have ever visited Untermyer Gardens during our Grand Holiday Illumination, you know that it is a magical event. You can get involved and spread the magic to others during this holiday season!
Each evening, a community group — or a group of friends or family — volunteers to host the Welcome Table. A sign at the Welcome Table will identify your group.​​ Volunteers from the group greet visitors, encourage them to sign up for our email newsletter and perhaps make a donation, and offer them complimentary hot chocolate.
​We need 4-6 people to staff the Welcome Table at all times. You are welcome on your own or with a group. Select a 2-hour shift, from 4:14-6:15 or 6:15-8:15. If you’d like to sign up as an individual or with a group, please click the link below to select dates and shifts.
