Classical; The five best concerts

1

Rimsky-Korsakov Thur

The London Philharmonic's Rimsky-Korsakov series swings into full gear with a concert of music by Rimsky, alongside his influences and those he influenced. Glinka, Mussorgsky and Stravinsky are the other voices on the menu. RFH, London SE (07-960 4242) 7.5pm

2

Elgar Symphonies tomorrow & Wed

The LSO's Elgar series, under Sir Colin Davis, is tackling the three symphonies in reverse order. Sunday's concert airs the Second, while Wednesday's ends with the triumphant First.

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

3

Handel's Messiah Fri

The Sixteen accompanied by The Symphony of Harmony and Invention, gets its seasonal Messiah in early. And a fine period rendition it should be, with soloists Catherine Wyn-Rogers and Mark Padmore. Harry Christophers conducts.

Barbican Hall, London EC2 (07-638 889) 7.45pm

4

Music of the Sea Wed

No fewer than five pieces with maritime connections make up the CBSO's concert, under Sakari Oramo. Amongst them are Elgar's Sea Pictures, Bridge's suite The Sea and Britten's Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes.

Symphony Hall, Birmingham (02-22 3333) 8pm

5

Andreas Scholl Tue

Probably the finest countertenor in the world airs interesting Baroque repertoire, accompanied by Markus Markl. Scholl, who was mesmeric in Handel at Glyndebourne in the summer, ends with one of the composer's Italian cantatas.

Wigmore Hall, London W (07-935 24) 7.30pm