One of the most anticipated arts events in Chester ’s calendar is once again upon us.

From the producers of Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre comes Chester Music Festival , 11 days of concerts in Chester Town Hall and St Thomas’ church in Parkgate from June 8–18.

This year’s festival got under way with cellist Abel Selacoe in concert on Wednesday.

Other highlights include an evening of Pulitzer prize winner Steve Reich’s music, the ‘Gran Caffe Venezia’ Concert - an annual festival favourite - and a chamber rendition of one of Gustav Mahler’s great orchestral pieces; Mahler’s famous ‘song – symphony’ Das Lied von der Erde, with mezzo Jane Irwin and tenor Joshua Ellicott.

Ensemble Deva is the in-house chamber ensemble for producers Storyhouse - the company responsible for the future operation of Chester’s £37m new theatre, library and cinema currently under construction. The ensemble will be led in turn by violinists Giovanni Guzzo and Thomas Gould, and feature Cheshire’s Sophie Rosa.

Other highlights include lunchtime concerts from internationally renowned pianist Martin Roscoe and a chance to hear Camille Saint-Saëns’ most famous work The Carnival of the Animals.

Orchestral tastes are catered for by two appearances from Manchester Camerata as they perform Prokofiev’s Classical Symphony (June 8) and Haydn Symphonies 69 and 75 alongside Mozart’s Piano Concerto 25 (June 10). With a chance to hear Hannah Roberts play Rachmaninov’s Cello Concerto (June 12) and an evening of Baroque sonatas for violin, cello and oboe (June 16), the festival once again promises to deliver music of the highest quality.

Artistic director at Storyhouse Alex Clifton said: “We are thrilled to be starting our summer of wonderful events with the anticipated Chester Music Festival. Ensemble Deva is made up of musicians from across Europe who are delighted to be performing in Chester, in front of an audience they have grown to love. Whether it’s contemporary sounds, orchestral concerts or intimate chamber recitals – there’s something for every music fan to enjoy.”

For more information and to book, visit storyhouse.com or visit Chester Visitor Information Centre.