Both Messiah and The Nutcracker are excellent works, and outside the U.S. often heard at various times of the year. Along with A Christmas Carol for theaters, these two are "seasonal" fundraisers for symphonies and ballets, respectively.
We have held out long enough, and now with November just around the corner, here's information about one of the best Messiah opportunities in the neighborhood: the American Bach Soloists' performance of the 1753 Foundling Hospital version, on Dec. 16, 18, and 19, conducted by Jeffrey Thomas, with soloists Mary Wilson (soprano), Eric Jurenas (countertenor), Wesley Rogers (tenor), and Jesse Blumberg (baritone).
Somewhat of a problem: the venue. It's Grace Cathedral, with its majestic echoes. So, if you're geographically favored, catch the ABS Messiah at Mondavi Center in Davis, on Dec. 14, or the Green Center in Rohnert Park, on Dec. 21. These two Sunday performances start at 4 and 3 p.m., respectively. In Grace Cathedral, starting time is 7:30 p.m. each night.