BROMSGROVE Festival, now in its 53rd year, makes a welcome return to the town this April.
The annual festival, which brings talented musicians to the town, begins with the return of the International Young Musicians Platform on April 18.
Lasting four days, the event showcases promising talent including outstanding violinists, pianists and singers.
The early rounds are free to attend at New Guesten Hall, Avoncroft Museum, with the finalists’ concert taking place from 7pm on April 21.
The 100th anniversary of the birth of composer and pianist Benjamin Britten is being marked with the screening of two movies at the Artrix Theatre on April 27.
Both films have been made by Tony Palmer, and he will be attending to specially introduce both.
At the New Guesten Hall on April 24 a recital entitled A Celebration of English Song is being given by Dame Felicity Lott, accompanied by Sebastian Wybrew.
International award-winning harpists 4 Girls, 4 Harps return to the festival on April 28 with a performance at the Artrix from 7.30pm.
On May 3, from 7.45pm, Patricia Routledge, probably best known for playing Hyacinth Bucket in the television series Keeping Up Appearances, will be appearing at the Artrix to talk about her successful career in musical theatre and film.
There will be a special festival orchestral concert given by the English Symphony Orchestra on May 11.
The concert, being held from 8pm at the Artrix, is preceded by a talk on Warlock by conductor Dr Donald Smith, as he recently completed a book on the composer.
Concluding this year’s festival are Timothy West and the Pavao String Quartet, who will be appearing at the Artrix from 7.45pm, on May 24.
To book tickets for this year’s festival events call 07824859572 or email bromsgrovefestival@btconnect.com.Bromsgrove Festival chairman Mary White said: “We aim to appeal to many different interests and, in difficult economic times, hope you find an event you will not wish to miss.”
Tickets are also available from Artrix’s booking office either in person at the School Drive-based venue, by calling 01527 577330, or visit artrix.co.uk.
For more details on this year’s festival see bromsgrovefestival.co.uk.