Christmas is here and so is the inevitable run of interpretations of George Frideric Handel’s Messiah. Fortunately, the American Bach Soloists more than do justice to the piece; they’ve even released a CD of their Mondavi Center performance from 2004. The group, under the direction of UC Davis music professor Jeffrey Thomas, will perform Messiah at the Mondavi Center’s lovely Jackson Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 4 p.m. on Sunday. The two-hour live show is sure to please both the aficionado and the seasonal concertgoer. This year’s production features a staggering 32-member orchestra and 33-member choir. Ticket prices range from $29 to $39, with discounts for UC Davis students. The ultimate Christmas carol couldn’t be any more welcome to the Sacramento Valley.
(SN&R)