Diary: Get set for Brecon (From Free Press Series)

Diary: Get set for Brecon

During one weekend in August the small market town of Brecon in Mid Wales is transformed as it plays host to the premier UK Jazz Festival.

For three glorious days Brecon is transformed into a haven of music and smiling faces.

Brecon Jazz has grown into one of Britain's most exciting and prestigious Festivals enjoyed for its world-class music and its relaxed atmosphere.

Some of the world's jazz greats perform in venues ranging from concert hall to market hall and some in the open air covered by the Brecon jazz trademark canopies.

Last year, Jamie Cullum appeared and has since become one of the best known musicians in the country.

The programme for this year's even is still being put together but organisers say it will be as great as ever.

Visitors from all over the world flock to our beautiful town with its narrow streets, quaint buildings and stunning scenery, in order to take part in this celebration of Jazz.

The musicians, approximately 400 in number, perform throughout the afternoons and evenings in the ten venues to an estimated audience of 50,000 people.

Brecon Jazz programmes approximately 90 concerts throughout the three days encompassing all tastes in jazz - there is something for everyone.

In the streets people can be seen rushing from one venue to another or simply strolling through browsing and listening to music, be it one of the marching bands or a busker - to be found around most street corners.

The 21st Anniversary of the Brecon Jazz Festival will be held from August 13-15 and promises to be a feast of music for the jazz connoisseur and novice alike.