THE annual Fishguard and West Wales International Music Festival will launch later this week with the best of brass band talent in Wales giving a concert at St David’s Cathedral on Friday, August 5 at 7.30pm. Established 40 years ago in 1982, The National Youth Brass Band of Wales (NYBBW) has 38 players this year aged 14 to 22 who auditioned at venues across Wales and online.

The band has worked with well-known conductors who are leaders in their field, including Edward Gregson (founding conductor), Robert Childs and current conductor, Philip Harper, conductor of the world-famous Cory Band.

Some of the finest young musicians in the area will also perform at the second concert of the Festival at Capel Ebeneser, Newport on Saturday, August 20. This showcase of local talent will be staged in conjunction with Young Music Makers of Dyfed and the Newport Music Society. Over the years, several musicians who have performed at this event have gone on to have professional careers in music.

Following these two concerts, 16 events will be staged at thirteen venues across Pembrokeshire from August 20 to September 10.

Schools’ performances will feature again during this year’s festival at Ysgol Ger y Llan, Letterston, Goodwick Community School and Holy Name Catholic School Fishguard with Morgan Szymanski, classical guitarist, who is performing at two evening concerts at the Festival in September.

Musicians Khamira will also play at St Mark’s School, Merlin Bridge, Haverfordwest following their concert on Saturday 10 September at Merlin Theatre, Haverfordwest.

Gillian Green MBE, Artistic Director of the Festival, said:

“I am pleased that Khamira and Morgan Szymanski will be performing in local primary schools thanks to support from Tŷ Cerdd who are also supporting the free open-air performances which have become an integral part of the festival.

“The festival is committed to providing a platform for young up and coming musicians to showcase their talents and have an opportunity to perform to a live audience. We also ensure that all of our concerts are affordable to young people with reasonably priced tickets.”

Tickets can be booked via the festival website at www.fishguardmusicfestival.com .