Joint concert promises string of treats

LOCAL music lovers will be treated to the best of string music from China and Hong Kong later this month - thanks to the famous Shanghai string quartet and the Victoria string quartet who are to stage a joint concert at the Hong Kong City Hall.

Established in 1960, the Shanghai string quartet is the oldest string ensemble in China.

Since winning the Schumann International Competition of Quartet in Berlin in 1960, the quartet has staged many successful performances all over the mainland and the world.

Its current members include two violinists Yu Lina and Shen-yong, violist Shen Xidi and cellist Bai Ping, all of whom are graduates of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music.

The Victoria string quartet comprises two Chinese and two American players.

They four players are first violinist Chao Bee-darn, second violinist Laura Bald, violist Fan Yan and cellist Beth Root.

Founded in 1992, the Victoria string quartet began its inaugural season with a concert tour to China, where their performances were highly successful and attracted a lot of enthusiasm.

Presented by the Urban Council, the concert by the eight experienced musicians will be held on April 24 at 8 pm at the Hong Kong City Hall's concert hall.

Tickets at $90, $70 and $50, with half-price for students and senior citizens, are now available at all URBTIX outlets.

For reservations, please call 734 9009, and the number to call for programme inquiries is 734 2006.