Hundreds to show off their talents at Church Stretton Musicfest

A town will stage its own new music festival to show off the talent of hundreds of musicians.

Church Stretton Musicfest will centre around the Rectory Field public park. Eight other venues around the town will host music and dance performances, workshops and demonstrations, musical instrument have-a-go sessions, as well as exhibitions and stalls as part of the celebration on May 7.

The festival will be spearheaded by Church Stretton School, and scores of local music and drama students are preparing to wow the crowds.

John Woolmer, one of the volunteer organisers, said those behind the festival had also been involved with the successful events such food fairs, summerfests and the 2014 Medieval Fair in Church Stretton.

"But this is the first time in Church Stretton when you will be able to listen to more than 200 musicians and actors perform in the open air on a professional stage throughout the day, and on into the evening," he said. "On Rectory Field there will be outdoor stalls, displays and demonstrations, three Wild Encounter shows that involve free-flying parrots, owls and hawks, as well as a display of exotic pets and animals.

"There will be a large stage with professional sound and lighting to showcase music and drama talent that will include Ludlow Concert Band, Shropshire Strummers plus a massed ukulele band open to all.

"There will be a variety of local ice creams, food and drink, including alcohol, all managed by professional caterers, and a large catering marquee and a play area for children with face painting, slides and a bouncy castle.

"In the evening there will be a rock concert showcasing four popular local bands."

For those who prefer classical music to rock, in the evening there will be a second stage at Church Stretton School for a performance of Brahm's Requiem, sung in English at 7.30pm.

During the day there will be more music-related activities such as bellringing, Taiko drumming, organ and harpsichord.