The Brodsky Quartet, Turner Sims Concert Hall, Tuesday

BENJAMIN Britten was one of the foremost composers of the last century, best-known for his large-scale works such as The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra and operas like Peter Grimes and Billy Budd.

Many people, though, are unfamiliar with his chamber and string quartet music - but all that is set to change thanks to the Turner Sims' three-concert celebration of Britten's chamber music, set to coincide with the 25th anniversary of his death.

The Brodsky Quartet's programme will include Britten's String Quartet No 1, Three Idylls by Frank Bridge - Britten's teacher and mentor - and Schubert's Quartet No 15, a composer with whom Britten had a special affinity.

The Brodsky Quartet's involvement in the celebrations is particularly poignant.

Not only is the group about to record Britten's complete string quartet but the group's viola player, Paul Cassidy, actually uses the instrument once owned by Britten himself.

Cassidy was given the viola after Britten's death by Britten's partner, Peter Pears. He was so moved by one of his performances he offered him Britten's old viola in the hope he would get more use out of it.

The quartet is at the forefront of the international chamber-music scene and has collaborated with many of the world's leading musicians, from composers such as Tavener and Lutoslawiski to Bjork and Elvis Costello.

You can see them at The Turner Sims Concert Hall tomorrow. Tickets cost £14. For more information, call 023 8059 5151.

SALLY CHURCHWARD