WHAT’S ON: The Royal Northern Sinfonia, conducted by Thomas Zehetmair, at Sage Gateshead at 7.30pm on Sunday(December21). Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No 6 “Pathetique” and Francesco Piemontesi performing Beethoven Piano Concerto No 4. Box office: 0191-443 4661.

REVIEWS: Christmas Carols from Village Green to Church Choir (Signum Classics SIGCD387)

Conductor and author Andrew Gant brings classic carols to life with his choir Vox Turturis. Performances include hardy annuals such as The Angel Gabriel, Adeste fideles and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, as well as lesser known gems such as Celebrons la naissance and Tempus adest floridum. The CD booklet includes an essay highlighting some of the fascinating stories behind the works. An ideal stocking filler.

On Christmas Night: Armonico Consort (Signum Classics SIGCD386)

Christopher Monks, conducting the Armonico Consort , presents a festive selection of classic carols and hymns alongside new commissions and arrangements. The programme is rounded off with a dynamic account of Benjamin Britten’s timeless A Ceremony of Carols. Highly recommended.

Homage: A musical dedication, Christopher Denoth (Signum Classics SIGCD404)

Swiss guitarist Christoph Denoth explores musical homages for the classic guitar. The album includes works by Malats, Rodrigo, Villa-Lobos, de Falla, Turina and Llobet. Recitals of poetic beauty.