THE ninth Cheltenham International Jazz Festival will be bringing some of the hottest names in jazz to town, as well as providing a platform for some of the best new talent.

Ranging from international legends to home-grown British stars, artists to hit the stage this year will include Jamie Cullum, Courtney Pine, Cassandra Wilson and John Taylor, to name but a few.

The festival takes place from Thursday, April 29 to Monday, May 3.

The festival is programmed for the third year by Tony Dudley-Evans, winner of the award for Services to Jazz at the 2003 BBC Jazz Awards.

"The 2004 Festival is bigger and broader than ever, using more venues and exploring new styles of event alongside the familiar focus on the best of jazz from around the world," said Tony.

"With a number of specially-formed collaborations exclusive to Cheltenham, this year promises to be our best one yet."

The festival welcomes back Brit Award nominee, and big jazz story of the year, Jamie Cullum.

Taking up the role as this year's artist-in-residence is the British pianist John Taylor.

The event also features a rare UK performance by the charismatic singer Cassandra Wilson.

Starting proceedings off on the opening night at Cheltenham Town Hall, is Courtney Pine.

"The festival brings the very best in contemporary jazz from around the world to Cheltenham," said Dominic Hamilton, festival organiser.

"With this year's all-star line-up and plenty of new music and venues, there should hopefully be something in the programme to interest everyone."

Prices for the festival range from free entry for some gigs, to £29.

For more information call the brochure hotline on 01242 237377, or visit www.cheltenhamfestivals.co.uk

For tickets call the box office on 01242 227979.