WHAT’S ON: Pianist/composer Ryan Wigglewsorth with Royal Northern Sinfonia, The Sage Gateshead, 7.30pm tonight. 0191-443-4661.

Durham Singers, Winter Serenade, Elvet Methodist Church, Durham City, 7.30pm, Saturday, French and English songs. Tickets 03000-266600 or on the door.

REVIEWS: Vivaldi: Four Seasons, Janine Jansens (Decca 4785001) Boasting ultra-high quality sound, this recording features violinist Janine Jansens performing Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Playing with pared down musical forces, Jansens brings a blast of fresh air to this popular work.

A significant addition to the discography that comes highly recommended.

Essential Tavener (Decca, 4786424) Released following the death of John Tavener, this CD comprises works that chart his musical trajectory to the pantheon of the greats.

Includes pieces from The Protecting Veil and Veil of the Temple, along with Song for Athene, performed at the funeral of Princess Diana.

Dvorak, Symphonic Dances (DG479 1113) Mikhail Pletnev and the Russian National Orchestra give a dynamic account of Dvorak’s colourful dances. This re-issue, held up as as one of the finest recordings of the works, has a clarity and focus that is a joy to listen to. The album includes four Russian overtures.