THE vocal and instrumental talents of more than 300 students will be celebrated in the fifth annual festival of Worcester's Elgar School of Music.

Folk, jazz and popular music will take their place alongside classical works during the week-long festival, from May 7 to 15.

"As in previous years, there is a series of lunchtime concerts given by the professional staff, together with a rush-hour concert and an evening of folk music," said administrator Caroline Lamb.

"Students of the school will have a platform to show their talents in a Student Showcase at All Saints Church, Deansway, on Sunday afternoon, May 8."

The festival starts with a choral workshop on early music, when there will be an opportunity to learn and perform Renaissance music under the direction of Geoffrey Stanley.

Highlight of the week will be a gala choral and orchestral concert featuring English music, with the Elgar Chorale and Camerata, conducted by Donald Hunt.

The programme will include works by Boyce, Elgar, Delius, Finzi, Williams and Hunt. New this year is an evening devoted to jazz and popular music, with the Elgar Big Band, plus vocalists and solo instrumentalists.

Traditional Celtic and Eastern European music will also get an airing during the Folk Fiesta.

On World Music Day, May 15, Ian Blick will lead a workshop on African and Indian drumming, with Brazilian samba.

No previous experience is needed, but early booking is advisable because there has been a great demand for places in previous years.

For programmes and workshop bookings, call the school office on 01905 28613.