There are pop stars, and there are rock stars -- and then there are "classical music superstars."

Tonight, 39-year-old Joshua Bell will make his debut in State College with the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, London's highly acclaimed chamber orchestra. The performance will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Eisenhower Auditorium.

Bell will appear as both a soloist and guest conductor of the orchestra.

"We like to bring at least one major artist here every year, and Joshua Bell is just an absolutely incredible violinist," George Trudeau, director of the Center for the Performing Arts, said. "And to be able to present him with the Academy, which is probably the most well-known and respected chamber orchestra in the world ... It's truly a one-time opportunity to hear this fabulous performer with a fabulous ensemble."

Trudeau said tonight's concert will feature Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" and a string orchestra arrangement of Brahms' "String Quintet No. 2."

When the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields formed in 1958, it was a small chamber ensemble with no conductor. Today, its 500 recordings make it the most-recorded chamber orchestra in the world.

Bell, who has released more than 10 albums, began his career at age 14. He is perhaps most recognized for 2003's Romance of the Violin, which topped classical music charts for 54 weeks.

In 1998, Bell captured widespread attention with a solo performance on the Oscar-winning soundtrack The Red Violin. Next month, he will receive the coveted Avery Fisher Prize, which honors career achievement.

"Joshua's musicianship is extraordinary ... he puts such passion and expression into everything he plays," Emily McCathran (sophomore-astronomy and astrophysics) said. "Some classical artists ignore the minute details of the music, making it seem monotonous. But Joshua takes advantage of every moment the music offers and captures the audience's attention and admiration."

Caitlyn Neal (sophomore-animal bioscience and psychology) said Bell's work appeals to both conservative listeners and violin aficionados.

"Joshua Bell is to the violin as Paul Posluszny is to Penn State, and I mean that in all regards," she said. "His music is innocently haunting. Like a dream, it lets you forget where and who you are, taking you into a spell only created by four strings and a bow."

Trudeau said he expects tonight's event to be largely successful.

"Tickets have sold very well, and I expect a big, big audience at the concert," he said.