THE Astaria String Quartet and narrator Gemma Martyn Smith want to whisk a Worcester audience away “for an afternoon of magical musical adventures”.

Well, it is almost Christmas, after all.

A spokesman said: “The Astaria String Quartet has been Worcester’s most loved quartet for years, and never fails to please with its innovative and fresh take on classical music, and constant exploration of less-well known pieces.

“However, their annual traditional family Christmas concert at Huntingdon Hall, where they are Quartet in Residence, has become one of the quartet’s most magical dates in what is a very busy calendar.”

The Astaria String Quartet is made up of founding member Shulah Oliver, a well-respected soloist violinist who is regularly invited to perform concertos with orchestras and give recitals with piano around the country and Europe; Kelly McCusker, who enjoys a busy and varied career on both modern and baroque violins performing with small chamber ensembles; Kate Bickerdike, who has worked with some of the leading ensembles in the country, including the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and the English Symphony Orchestra; and Sean Gilde, a founding member of the Astaria and Almira String Quartets, who has given recitals at many of the UK’s major concert halls.

The spokesman added: “This year’s Christmas treat lasts approximately one hour and tells the enchanting tales of Beauty and the Beast and The Nutcracker. Hear how The Nutcracker is brought to life and join in his adventures of bravery, excitement and daring. Whether you are young or young at heart, this performance is guaranteed to send you home with a smile on your face and full of the joys of this special time of year.

“Why not take time out and treat your family to a concert filled with music and the magic of Christmas at Worcester’s Huntingdon Hall. Go on… the present wrapping can wait.”

The date for the diary is December 16.

Tickets: 01905 611427.