Five reasons to go to the symphony this weekend

1. Paavo's in town. You know his concert is going to be electric. And, he's recording this program for posterity on Telarc.

2. You'll hear some of the best examples of British music in the orchestral repertory.

3. Britten's "Young Person's Guide ot the Orchestra" is not just for children anymore. It's an interesting set of variations on a theme by Purcell (another Englishman)that features various instruments of the orchestra. It's only been performed one other time by the Cincinnati Symphony.

4. Elgar's Enigma Variations is one of the most beautiful works Elgar ever wrote (and almost as familiar as his Pomp and Circumstance -- graduation -- march).

5. Garrick Ohlsson is one of my favorite pianists and he's playing Schumann's Piano Concerto, a great piece.

P.S. Tonight there's free food.

Tickets: Call 513-381-3300 or visit the symphony's web site. You can also download program notes there. (See Sandye's comment below for deals on tickets.)

Reviews: Watch the Enquirer on Friday, page A-2, for my review of the concert. If it doesn't make your edition, or you can't find it at www.enquirer.com, check here. I'll post it for you.