THE first ever MBNA Chester Music Festival gets under way this Saturday (June 1).

Taking place in the city’s glorious Town Hall and Cathedral, this new, diverse and ambitious music festival is produced and staged for the first time by leading arts organisation Chester Performs.

Producer Andrew Bentley said: “We’ve been delighted with the response from customers and can’t wait to get the festival started. It is new to us but we’ve been sure to build on the successes of the past whilst also looking forward to an exciting future and growing reputation.”

Dubbed the ‘musician’s festival’ as much of the programme has been created by the artists themselves, the 16-day event features its own new world-class ensemble.

Ensemble Deva, led by violinist Giovanni Guzzo and featuring some of Europe’s most gifted chamber musicians, will perform together in eight of the festival’s 25 concerts.

Much of the programme, which ranges from large scale orchestral concerts to intimate recitals, will take place in the recently refurbished Town Hall.

“We’re making big changes to the Town Hall with the introduction of new ‘in-the-round’ seating. We’re really excited about this new development which will help create a wonderfully intimate environment to enjoy the recitals.”

The festival will open on Saturday with Handel Coronation Anthems at Chester Cathedral.

This spectacular evening concert, which marks the 60th anniversary of the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, will feature the festival’s orchestra-in-residence Manchester Camerata alongside the powerful and rousing voices of the Chester Festival Chorus.

Sunday and Monday mark the 100th anniversary celebrations of England’s much-loved composer, conductor and pianist Benjamin Britten.

Biographer and renowned conductor Paul Kildea joins the festival on Sunday night to present his fascinating lecture with music – Britten in Six Songs. In an exploration of the vision and genius of Britten, Kildea will also be joined by popular tenor Allan Clayton.

FOR the full festival programme, visit www.chestermusicfestival.co. uk.