RENOWNED actress Vanessa Redgrave brings some star quality to the world premier of composer Sir John Taverner's concert Tribute to Cavafy at the Symphony Hall in Birmingham on Friday, January 20.

Mrs Redgrave, a member of one of the most famous acting dynasties in Britain, adds a touch of class as the production's narrator.

The show is inspired by the writings of 19th Century Greek poet Cavafy Constantine and contains many of his best pieces of work.

Tribute to Cavafy is an intuitive response to the poet's mythical ancient Greek world and creates tragic, grand and solemn music.

Peter Phillips directs the Tallis Scholars, while the solo soprano part is taken by Sarah Connolly.

John Tavener first came to prominence in 1968, when his oratorio The Whale was recorded by The Beatles.

In 1989 The Protecting Veil introduced his music to a new audience, but it was not until 1997 that Sir John became a household name, when Song for Athene was sung to profound effect at the funeral of Princess Diana.

The concert also features the UK premiere of Gombert's Missa Tempore Paschali, one of the largest late-Renaissance Masses, pre-dating the Tavener by some 500 years.

Sir John is set to give a talk before the show (6.15pm), explaining some of the ideas behind it. Tribute Cavafy start at Symphany Hall at 7.30pm.

If interesting in going call Symphony Hall's box office on 0121 7803333, go to or www.symphonyhall.co.uk/boxoffice.