The main event

Abu Dhabi Classics returns with a couple of cracking concerts.

Abu Dhabi Classics One of the capital's best high-culture events returns with a couple of cracking concerts to kick off a new season which stretches all the way to early May. Between now and then, the likes of Simon Rattle, Yo-Yo Ma and Daniel Barenboim will be among the big names who will grace the emirate. Daniele Gatti, right, will conduct Amsterdam's Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra (RCO) in the opening concert, which is a celebration of the works of Gustav Mahler and Richard Wagner. And the following day, the RCO will play a special children's concert. Wednesday 8pm, Emirates Palace hotel auditorium, Abu Dhabi, tickets from Dh120, 800 4669 Thursday 11.30am, Emirates Palace hotel auditorium, Abu Dhabi, by invitation only. For the full schedule visit www.abudhabiclassics.com