George Michael is staging a special gig to raise money for an Aids charity fund in memory of screen star Elizabeth Taylor.

The concert at the Royal Opera House, in London, on November 6, 2011, is part of the singer's 47-date tour of Europe that sees him accompanied by a symphony orchestra. All the money raised on the night will go to the Elton John Aids Foundation's newly created Elizabeth Taylor Memorial Fund.

Michael said: "I have seen how HIV can affect people's lives, how it can destroy families and communities. The way that the Elton John Aids Foundation gets help to the people around the world who need it most - often the most marginalised communities - really spurred me on to do something." He added that he wanted to honour the late actress's Elizabeth's "inspiring efforts" campaigning to raise awareness of the disease.

Elton, who duetted with Michael on the 1991 hit "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me", said: "George has been a patron of the Foundation since its inception and has been a much valued supporter over the years, as well as a dear friend. This is an incredible and generous gesture. I thank George from my heart for doing this. His is an amazing talent, and this is a fantastic gift he is making to people affected by HIV."

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