Among the countless musicians who have interpreted Dmitri Shostakovich’s works, the Borodin Quartet is considered one-of-a-kind for its close ties with the master composer. For music lovers who wish to delve deeper into Shostakovich’s musical world, the quartet’s concert at the Guangming Culture and Art Center on Dec. 28 is a must-listen.

Formed by four students of the Moscow Conservatory in 1945, the Borodin Quartet is one of the world’s longest-standing chamber ensembles. Its pursuit of technical perfection and emotional depth has been passed down through generations of members — all graduates of the Moscow Conservatory — over the past eight decades, including its current lineup consisting of cellist Vladimir Balshin, violist Igor Naidin, first violinist Nikolay Sachenko, and second violinist Sergei Lomovsky.

Known for its masterly interpretations of works by Russian composers, the Borodin Quartet is especially revered for performing Shostakovich’s quartets. With the ensemble’s original members personally consulted by Shostakovich for each of his quartets, its interpretations have long been regarded as among the most authoritative. In addition to performing the quartets in prestigious concert halls worldwide, the ensemble has also recorded Shostakovich’s complete string quartets.

One of the most influential composers of the 20th century, Shostakovich’s 15 string quartets, filled with reflections on the Russian history and society as well as on life, hold a place in chamber music history on par with Beethoven’s works. Quartets No. 8, No. 7, and No. 3, the three pieces to be performed at the Borodin Quartet’s Shenzhen concert, will offer audiences a glimpse into different phases of the composer’s career, from the post-war period to his late years.

Time: 3 p.m., Dec. 28 (Sunday)

Venue: Guangming Culture and Art Center