Those of us who attended the Philharmonia Orchestra's spectacular Re-Rite – a life-size virtual orchestra project in the proposed new art gallery on New Walk, were bowled over by this amazing event.

The sensation of being inside the orchestra, seeing the players at close range and watching the conductor, Esa-Pekka Salonen, as players would see him, as well as listening to his commentary on the music, was a revelation. The work being performed (continuously) was Stravinsky's Rite of Spring and its stunning orchestral effects were ideally suited to this type of project.

Projects like this, which attract large numbers of people, including lots of children and school parties, are another facet of the world-renowned Philharmonia Orchestra's commitment to the city.

Another spectacular orchestral showpiece will be played at 7.30pm on Wednesday, May 12, at the De Montfort Hall.

Gustav Holst's suite The Planets is full of memorable tunes and dazzling orchestration.

Two works by Walton complete the programme: his vibrant overture Portsmouth Point and the Violin Concerto, in which the soloist will be Gil Shaham. Hugh Wolff conducts. A free pre-concert talk in which John Florance interviews Gil Shaham is at 6.15pm.

Tickets range from £29 to £8.50 with concessions at £27 to £7.50 on 0116 233 3111.

This Saturday, also in the De Montfort Hall, the Bardi Symphony orchestra under Claus Efland will play Sir Arnold Bax's Tintagel, along with Bruch's ever-popular Violin Concerto No.1 with Thomas Bowes as soloist and Shostakovich's powerful Fifth Symphony. This concert will also be preceded by a free talk hosted by John Florance at 6.30pm.

Tickets for the concert range from £15 to £9 with concessions at £13 to £7.50 and under-17s, £2.