Callers on hold to get live music

The string quartet will perform in full evening wear

A London call centre is to host the first performance of live music to entertain callers on hold.

Those who telephone the technical help desk of IT firm Universal Support will be able to listen to a string and flute quartet perform "on hold" classics.

Known as The Four Seasons, the quartet will play tunes such as Nessun Dorma and Greensleeves while call centre staff respond to telephone queries.

The performance will also be simulcast live on the internet.

The quartet of young musicians, all graduates of some of Britain's top music conservatories will perform wearing full evening dress.

Depending on their success, the concert will be part of a season of weekly "on hold" music.

Classic music stars are coming together for a one-off tsunami concert at The Royal Albert Hall on 31 March.

Performers who have so far been confirmed include Aled Jones, the English Chamber Orchestra, G4, Julian Lloyd Webber and his new Bossanova Band, Keedie, Opera Babes and Russell Watson.