Performer: Benjamin Hulett

Laurence Cummings and John Caird’s second Garsington exploration of the operas of Monteverdi brims with wonderfully playing and singing in an attractive setting.

Opha Phelan’s staging presents the action as a grand, Freudian social experiment. It’s a risk – but the production is lifted by outstanding performances from the cast and the Academy of Ancient Music.

As the BBC Proms visits Gateshead, Dinis Sousa and the Royal Northern Sinfonia excel in Mendelssohn, although David Fray's Bach underwhelms. 

Massed choral forces, a strong solo line up and expanded orchestral forces overpower Handel at the end of the BBC Proms Choral Day.

A memorable performance, with Stephen Barlow conducting Janáček’s remarkable score with vividness and clarity, while David Alden's staging is a masterpiece of "less is more". 

Handel's third English oratorio is presented in strictly traditional fashion at the 2024 Halle Handel Festival but nonetheless generates drama, excitement and excellent singing.