Leicester's atmospheric Guildhall comes into its own at Christmas time and it makes a superb venue for seasonal concerts, writes Neil Crutchley.

On Friday it's the turn of the Longslade Consort's "drop in" shoppers' concert between 5pm and 8pm.

This is an informal event and you can arrive when you like, stay for as long as you like and enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie whilst listening to a selection of instrumental works dating from 1700-1750. A number of special offers will be available during the evening, easily saving the entrance cost of £3, which includes the refreshments.

www.earlymusicleicester.co.uk

On Saturday, Mondayand Wednesday, December 23, all at 8pm, the Guildhall plays host to the Kingfisher Chorale's popular Christmas concert.

Included in the programme will be traditional carols in contemporary arrangements such as Silent Night and the Cherry Tree carol, along with lighter fare such as Winter Wonderland and Santa Claus is Coming to Town. The music will be interspersed with seasonal readings.

Tickets cost £7 and £8.50 and are available in advance from the Guildhall.

www.kingfisherchorale.org

Another atmospheric venue is the handsome church of St James the Greater, in London Road, and this is the venue for tomorrow's concert by the City of Leicester Singers.

Classic carols include seasonal items as voted for by listeners to Classic FM.

There will also be six well-known Christmas hymns.

The concert begins at 7.30pm and tickets (including mulled wine, fruit juice, mince pies and shortbread) cost £7.

www.cityofleicestersingers.co.uk