CLASSICAL: THE FIVE BEST CONCERTS

1

Alcina today, Mon & Thur

Handel's magical and long-popular late opera is conducted by Sir Charles Mackerras, with a fine set of soloists including Joan Rodgers and Janis Kelly sharing duties as the enchantress.

Coliseum, London WC2 (07-632 8300) 6.30pm (today), 7pm (Mon & Thur)

2

Benvenuto Cellini tomorrow & Wed

The first of the LSO's Berlioz cycle, under the world-renowned Berlioz conductor Sir Colin Davies, brings three concert performances of the early opera Benvenuto Cellini (third performance next Saturday).

Barbican Hall, London EC2 (07-638 889) 7pm

3

Falstaff Mon & Thur

Verdi's opera makes a suitably high-profile work to help relaunch the Royal Opera House. Bryn Terfel plays the old knight, while Bernard Haitink conducts Graham Vick's production.

Royal Opera House, London (07-304 4000) 7pm

4

OAE/Rattle Wed

Sir Simon Rattle rounds off the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment's Beethoven symphony cycle with the "Choral" Symphony.

Royal Festival Hall, London SE (07-960 4242) 7.30pm

5

Louis Andriessen 60th Birthday Concert Fri

Martyn Brabbins conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra and New London Children's Choir in two major works by the Dutch Modernist.

Barbican Hall, London EC2 (07-638 889) 7.30pm