correct scentence?

[punctuation_pains]

I am not sure if the following scentence is correct or if I need a comma (or a semi-colon) after "plays".

Joe enjoys plays but Emily prefers concerts.

any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Casiopea]

The following are correct:

Independent clause + Comma + Dependent clause:
[1] Joe enjoys plays, but Emily prefers concerts.

Independent clause + Semicolon + Independent clause:
[2] Joe enjoys plays; Emily prefers concerts.

Note that,

Some writers feel the coordinating conjunction (e.g., but) is adequate separation in a sentence with short, balanced independent clauses.

Independent clause + Conjunction + Independent clause:
[3] Joe enjoys plays but Emily prefers concerts. <no comma>

If there is ever any doubt, use the comma, as it is always correct in this situation.

Source: http://www.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/