Critic's picks - classical music

Handel's "Xerxes" — Boston Baroque opens its season with its most ambitious presentation of the year: semi-staged performances of this much-admired Handel opera. Male soprano Michael Maniaci sings the title role, and the cast includes Amanda Forsythe, Marie Lenormand, Leah Wool, and Michael Scarcelle. Paul Peers directs, and Martin Pearlman conducts. Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Jordan Hall, 617-484-9200 or www.bostonbaroque.org.

Steven Isserlis — One of the most imaginative and compelling cellists out there, Isserlis makes a rare Boston recital appearance partnered by the fine pianist Jeremy Denk. The program includes works by Mendelssohn, Chopin, Britten, and Poulenc. Next Sunday at 1:30, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, 617-278-5156 or www.gardnermuseum.org.

—Jeremy Eichler