‘Tis the Season for Handel’s Messiah

George Frederic Handel’s “Messiah” oratorio is a holiday classic.  Orchestras and choruses around the world stage performances this time of year. Some use full orchestra and large choruses, while others use smaller chamber ensembles and soloists (closer to how Handel originally wrote the piece).

Check the local entertainment listings in your area and you’re likely to find nearby productions by orchestras and community groups.

Here’s a sampling of “Messiah” productions for the 2014 holiday season:

New York Philharmonic – December 16 & 17. Lincoln Center in New York City.  Discount.

Los Angeles Master Chorale  – December 17 & 21. Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles.

San Francisco Symphony Orchestra & Chorus – December 18.  Davis Symphony Hall in San Francisco.  Discount.

National Symphony Orchestra – December 18 – 21. Kennedy Center in Washington DC.

Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra – December 21. Cincinnati Music Hall in Cincinnati.  Discount.

Do-It-Yourself Messiah – December 21 & 22. The audience sings the chorus part while an orchestra and professional soloists do the rest.  Harris Theater in Chicago.