Performer: Heidi Melton

A strong cast led by Sarah Aristidou and compelling conducting from Nicholas Collon are the highlights of the opening night of this year's Musikfest Berlin.

New York Philharmonic, under the strong leadership of its incoming music director, demonstrated that they can perform opera as well as symphonies in an impressive performance of Act 1 of Die Walküre.

Joining Music Director Jaap van Zweden were some familiar faces who had appeared in Das Rheingold and Die Walküre in the same or different roles, and new faces appearing for the first time.

Simon Rattle leads the LSO and a fine chorus and cast of soloists in Ligeti's masterpiece: surreal, madcap but touching the sublime.

Singing, orchestral playing and scenic portrayal all combine to make a highly memorable second instalment of Wagner's Ring.

English National Opera's new Tristan is at its best when responding to Anish Kapoor's stunning stage sculptures.