No one is rushing the season of peace on Earth, good will toward men. But after the curtains fall (as soon they must) on holiday concerts, musicals and spectaculars, the symphony orchestras and various musical entertainments throughout the District prepare their 2011 offerings.

Herein are highlights of the Washington Performing Arts Society’s lineup for the second half of their season, one that assures concert-goers of exceptional programming for cold winter nights and beyond.