[Originally Published in the Toronto Star]
Like tree-lighting ceremonies, Santa Claus parades and yuletide office parties, George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah” is, for many, a tradition without which Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas.
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra and Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra and Chamber Choir have always delivered the most popular Messiahs in town, but they differ widely.
The TSO presents a new interpretation with a fresh guest conductor every year, whereas Tafelmusik approaches it with a historical eye for detail. The ensemble also sticks with the same conductor, Ivars Taurins, who has been at the helm for more than 30 years…