Budleigh Music Festival opens its doors on Friday and runs for eight days, featuring a host of internationally recognised classical and jazz musicians.

Organisers say that the first day is all about the community, as singers and schools come together in a choral workshop led by renowned composer Bob Chilcott.

Chair of the Budleigh Music Festival committee, Kate Somerby, says that starting this year’s festival in this way was a conscious decision.

She said: “Community is at the core of our mission and values and enabling people from our local area to have the chance to sing with such a well-known composer seemed like a brilliant way to start this year’s Budleigh Music Festival.”

Other performers featuring throughout the week, include saxophonist and BBC Radio 3 presenter Jess Gillam, renowned jazz singer Jacqui Dankworth, pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason, tenor James Gilchrist and previous BBC Young Musician winners Lara Melda playing a Chopin piano concerto with the Carducci Quartet and violinist Jennifer Pike performing a unique concert which interplays Bach with Indian sarod players Ayaan and Amaan Ali Bangash playing traditional Ragas.

Kate says that to witness such high calibre, globally renowned musicians in East Devon is a unique opportunity and that whilst sales have been better than ever, tickets are still available for some performances.

“We know that this year’s line-up offers festival goers a special opportunity to witness some incredible musicians up close and personal here in Budleigh Salterton. We’ve made it as easy as we possibly can for people to come and immerse themselves in the world of music. Whether you know much about it or not, it really doesn’t matter - this is the chance to switch off and join us on a musical voyage of discovery.”

Budleigh Music Festival begins on Friday 30 June and runs until Saturday 8 July. For further information, see www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk