classical

The Ben 300 deluge begins with music. The Philomel Baroque Orchestra certainly holds a special claim here, since they regularly play music from Franklin's time, and often perform in buildings that the old man himself was known to frequent. The ensemble, which itself turns 30 this season, will present a concert series this weekend that is constructed to resemble the sort of program that was common in the 18th century. "It will be an authentic melange," says co-artistic director and recorder soloist Elissa Berardi, "although it is bizarre by our normal standards." An expanded ensemble will play two chamber organ concertos, by British composers Arne and Handel, the delightful soprano Laura Heimes will sing "pleasure garden songs," which are humorous mock cantatas, and Philomel's superb baroque cellist Vivian Barton will spin out some soulful solos. Happy birthday Ben, and Philomel, as separated by a decimal point.

Fri., Nov. 18, 8 p.m., $25-$40, Christ Church, Second and Market sts., also in Doylestown and Chestnut Hill, 215-487-2344, www.philomel.org, www.benfranklin300.com.