Hélène Clement (viola) & Alasdair Beatson (piano)

Best known as a member of the Doric Quartet, French violist Hélène Clément is the current holder of the viola previously owned by both Frank Bridge and Benjamin Britten. This instrument, made by Francesco Giussani, in Italy, in 1843 was given to Britten as he left England in 1939 by his ‘musical father’. Since first playing this viola, Hélène has aimed to create a testament to both composers by championing their repertoire for the viola, including Bridge’s cello sonata arranged for viola. Her partner is the outstanding Scottish pianist, Alasdair Beatson, who has built an enviable reputation for his work with singers and instrumentalists.