Philadelphia Orchestra’s holiday concerts offer seasonal classics for all generations

Generations of music lovers have made The Philadelphia Orchestra part of their holiday celebrations. This December the Orchestra’s holiday concerts are once again a destination for listeners who want to experience the sublime sounds of the season performed by the Fabulous Philadelphians. The festivities kick-off with a performance of Handel’s Messiah, an audience favorite since the composer’s time, which returns for its 48th annual outing by the Orchestra (December 14). The Glorious Sound of Christmas, first introduced as a best-selling album in 1962, continues to delight today on compact disc and as a trio of exciting concerts (December 18-20). The holiday season culminates with the Orchestra’s annual New Year’s Eve Concert featuring soprano Heidi Stober and baritone Hugh Russell in a program of Viennese music (December 31). Tickets for selected holiday concerts start at $10.