ONE of London's leading orchestras is teaming up with a rising star in the classical world in the opening concert of the Stratford-on-Avon Music Festival.

The Orchestra of St John's Smith Square is making ready to fill the famous Holy Trinity Church with a programme including one of the most popular concertos ever written - Mozart's Clarinet Concerto.

The soloist is Sarah Williams, a BBC Young Musician of the Year finalist who is now enjoying a flourishing career.

The concert, which also includes John McCabe's Red Leaves, Finzi's Bagatelles for clarinet and orchestra and Haydn's Symphony No 83, The Hen, takes place tomorrow at 7.30pm.

Other highlights of the festival's first week include a concert by the RSC Brass Quintet and the Paul Robeson Story: The Search for Ol' Man River on Saturday in the Town Hall, the Jaipur Kawa Brass Band bringing a feast of North Indian music to the Civic Hall, also on Saturday, and a musical version of Roald Dahl's Three Little Pigs on stage at The Civic Hall on Sunday.

There are educational concerts, dance, jazz, lunchtime concerts and performances from artists from all over the world.

Call the festival box office on 01926 496277 for ticket information (children and students can get into many events for just £1) or log on to www.warwick-arts.org.uk.

Call in at the Civic Hall or the Tourist Information Centre in Stratford for a leaflet detailing events.