If any orchestral group can get away with giving a program a name like Strings of Fire, it’s Mercury Baroque. With its period instruments, and, well, a baroque flair for the dramatic, the group has always made listening an emotional experience. Tonight, led by director Antoine Plante, they’ll perform “incendiary” selections by a four-pack of Italians: Vivaldi, Corelli, Geminiani and Locatelli. Here, again, there’s no overstatement; the Italian composers (big surprise) are known for strong rhythms, relative complexity and moody tones. Don’t expect any real flames onstage, but the impressive ensemble, paired with the overall aesthetics of baroque music, should bring plenty of heat. 8 p.m. Miller Outdoor Theatre, 100 Concert Drive. For information, 713-533-0080 or visit www.mercurybaroque.org. Free.

Fri., Sept. 5, 8 p.m., 2008

This article appears in Sep 4-10, 2008.