Justin Doyle: Swaledale Festival's new
Artistic Director

A MAJOR Yorkshire Dales festival is all set for a celebration of classical music this summer as it welcomes in its 27th year with a new Artistic Director.

Justin Doyle joins the Swaledale Festival which has earned a national and international reputation for its showcase of classical music. The 31 year old is already Artistic Director of the Ryedale Festival and Eastern Opera and has extensive experience as a conductor - he was the first Conductor Fellow to the BBC Singers and broadcasts with them on a regular basis. He is also Musical Director of The King's Camerata and the Dorking Choral Society and will be working with Opera North this year.

Speaking of his appointment, Justin said: "I am delighted to become involved in such a well-loved Festival. I grew up not far from here and love the area, so I am very excited to return.

"The Festival thrives on its distinctive mixture of local artists and performers from all over the country and indeed the world. I look forward to building on the wonderfully diverse programming, established by my predecessor Philip Parr, and bringing so many beautiful venues to life with stunning music."

The Festival, which starts on the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, attracts audiences of 5,000 each year to its two week programme. Although the Festival has a classical core, folk, jazz, and brass bands are featured and local performers and groups are involved. The performance and commissioning of contemporary works is encouraged and the Festival's educational programme brings professional musicians to local schools.

I grew up not far from here and love the area, so I am very excited to return

Justin Doyle - Swaledale Festival

Set in the beautiful northern dales, performances take place in churches, chapels and village halls, some in the remoter parts of Swaledale. The musical events are complemented by a programme of exhibitions, talks, workshops and guided walks.

John Sparke, Chairman of the Festival said: "We are thrilled that Justin has joined the Swaledale Festival and are determined to build on the success we have achieved over recent years. Justin is already busy developing the programme for the 2007 Festival."

The 2007 Swaledale Festival takes place between May 26 - June 10

• For more information visit www.swaledale-festival.org.uk