Marvellous, an open debate on musical taste and cultural diversity.

I am not as well versed in Elgar quotes and fundamental music directions as Ian Beresford Gleaves (Your Letters, July 14), but I find it fascinating that there is such passion in any one person for music.

I was exposed to a broad spectrum of music as a child and subsequently chose to train as an opera singer. That passion was given to me as a child, as was the readiness to listen to all music types.

This was my original argument, that you have your passion for Elgar and that this culturally diverse town we live in together has people with equal passion for other styles of music.

There is a large section of Malvern society that seems unwilling to let others express their musical passion with the same zeal, it is this that I find frightening and this is why I am engaging in a debate.

Westfest 2006 is aimed at harnessing community spirit through music and fun events and encouraging local people to get involved and be exposed to a wider society for one day, while raising substantial money for West Malvern organisations.

This initiative is backed by the whole community, including the parish council, and the personal likes and dislikes are put aside so the community as a whole can benefit.

I ask you to come along and witness community at work and see what spirit this "drivel", as Mr Beresford Gleaves calls it, can help to engender.

Richard Penhaligon, chair, Westfest 2006.