Modern 'Messiah'
Lighter, leaner, faster. In recent years, that's how the trends in performing Handel's great oratorio "Messiah" have been going, as historical research discovered that a cast of hundreds takes you further away from the composer's intent. English conductor Paul McCreesh (pictured) is one of the leading proponents of this contemporary style. His penchant for crisp, athletic tempos and lean, incisive singing should draw fresh results from the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and Minnesota Chorale in their presentation of Handel's seasonal masterpiece. (8 p.m. Dec. 16, Basilica of St. Mary, 88 N. 17th St., Mpls.; 8 p.m. Dec. 17 and 2 p.m. Dec. 18, Ordway Concert Hall, 5th and Washington Sts., St. Paul. $15-$53. 651-291-1144, thespco.org.)
TERRY BLAIN
