What are the best lenses for concert photography on a Canon?

Any advice on this would be welcome. I recently switched allegiance from Nikon to Canon and am looking to expand my photography into music venues but not really sure what exactly I'm looking for in a lens. All price brackets are welcomed and I'm speaking mainly about shooting front of stage without flash although tips for a little more distance are welcomed too.

Many thanks,

Philip

Added (1). Thanks KawKaw, there are some great shots there. Were they all taken on a D90? Was it a Nikon equivalent lens to the Canon 70-200mm?

70-200mm f/2.8… Its id say the best lens for concert photography…
Its a bit pricey but you won't regret…

Check pics taken with a 70-200 f/2.8 -- >

EDIT -- Yeah they were taken with a D90 but the lens is also there for Canon --> http://www.canon.co.uk/...e=selector

I have used it and its really good… There are many other lenses in that range but what is important is to have a low f number so that pics come clear and even at the darkest conditions (as most concerts are in the dark) with the ISO set at the lowest (100~200) you don't need to go below 1/50 secs shutter speed…

Concert photography does not have one rule that applies to all. The 70-200 is good if you're shooting from the audience. If you get into the press area, it might do well there, but you might also use a shorter focal length. If you get back stage, then the 70-200 is too long. Bear in mind that the Canon 70-200 is a large, long, white lens that screams PROFESSIONAL. Check with your concert venues every time to make sure that they allow professional gear. Or get a press pass.

Concerts are usually dark with spotlights illuminating the performers. You can't always trust the camera's light meter. It will usually set an exposure that opens up the darks, which blows out the performers and makes it look like you shot in somebody's garage. Dial in negative exposure compensation in this situation.

If you're a press pit regular then you need the 70-200mm f2.8 L USM IS II. The Nikon equivalent is the AF-S 70-200mm f2.8G IF-ED VR II. You should also consider the Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 EX DG OS HSM.

As an ordinary fee paying fan then you probably need to think more along the lines of the Canon 135mm f2 L which is much more subtle than the 70-200's.