It will be conductor Mariss Jansons' New Year's Concert debut, although he has conducted the VPO regularly since 1992.

The concert also features two festive ballets choreographed by John Neumeier and performed by the Vienna State Opera Ballet and the Hamburg State Opera Ballet. Costumes are by the designer Giorgio Armani.

The concert attracts a global television audience of millions. In the United States, it can be seen today on PBS at 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. EST (check local listings) as part of the Great Performances series. Walter Cronkite will host.