Article updated: 12/11/2012 11:28 PM

Best bets: Find holiday spirit through music

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Soprano Rachel DeShon is part of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra's concerts "Let it Snow!" which also feature pianist Rich Ridenour, the Elgin Choral Union, the Elgin Children's Chorus and the Midwest Dance Collective.

Pianist Rich Ridenour is part of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra's concerts "Let it Snow!" which also feature soprano Rachel DeShon, the Elgin Choral Union, the Elgin Children's Chorus and the Midwest Dance Collective.

Chris Hardwick

Associated Press

Comedian Chris Hardwick appears at Zanies in Chicago and Rosemont.

Photo courtesy of Brad Barket/PictureGroup

The Agape Ringers show off amazing handbell skills with the concert "Sounds of the Season" at the Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church on Saturday, Dec. 15.

Lindsey Ray stars as Clara in Dancenter North's "The Magic of the Nutcracker" at the Genesee Theatre in Waukegan.

Courtesy of Studio West Photography

The Brookfield Zoo is lit up for the season on weekends and around Christmas for Holiday Magic.

"American Idol" finalist Clay Aiken performs at the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles.

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The Elgin Symphony Orchestra performs "Let It Snow!" -- a concert of vocal and instrumental music and dance celebrating the holidays at the Hemmens in Elgin. The Agape Ringers perform "Sounds of the Season," along with a performance by Clay Aiken and a slew of "Nutcrackers." But if you need a break from the holiday get-go, fanboys (and girls) rejoice as "Talking Dead" guru Chris Hardwick brings his Nerdist standup to two Zanies locations.