STRING quartet recitals are rare in Hereford and great ensembles like the Vellinger, who play on Saturday September 30 in The Shirehall at 7.30pm, even rarer.

Their idyllic programme, comprising the last quartets of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven, the three most celebrated classical composers, is one of undiluted masterpieces, with the lovely Schubert Quartetsatz thrown in for good measure.

Formed in 1991 and winning the London International String Quartet Competition in 1994, they have since achieved fame in Europe, USA and Japan at renowned halls like the Philharmonic in Berlin and the Carnegie in New York. The Washington Post reviewer said: "They play so well together....as a single instrument that happens to be played by four people."

They have been noted for 'exceptional tone', 'the ability to make phrases live and grow' whilst capturing the elusive quality of each composer, along with 'an improvisatory quality' and 'taking risks' for expressive ends.

Their members, Stephanie Gonley, Philippe Honore, Timothy Boulton and Sally Pendlebury, add lustre to the students of The Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London by teaching there as the Quartet-in-Residence, which must enhance their superlative playing. What will make them give their all in Hereford is that it is Timothy Boulton's home town - his parents, Reg and Rikki from Broomy Hill, will be present for this major event in the musical life of the city.

Because of the melodiousness and greatness of the works, even those shy of chamber music are likely to be captivated. Tickets are available from Outback Classical Records, 19a Church Street, Hereford (telephone 01432 275063) - it's advantageous to book in advance as there is a seating plan, though tickets are available at the door.