ONE of Europe's leading orchestra opens its spring season this weekend.

The Northern Sinfonia will play at Darlington Dolphin Centre, on Sunday, at 7.15pm.

The orchestra is acknowledged as one of Europe's most exciting chamber orchestras and has built a reputation for dynamic performances and its repertoire.

Northern Sinfonia - which is sponsored by Roman Bathrooms - and its music director, Thomas Zehetmair, moved into its multi-million-pound home, The Sage Gateshead, in 2004.

On Sunday, the orchestra will play Elgar's String Quartet in E minor; Op. 83, the Violin Sonata in E minor, Op. 82 and his Piano Quintet in A minor, Op. 84.

Tickets cost £10, £5 for under- 21s, and are available by calling the box office on 01325-486555.