Literature Goes to Hay Food Goes to Abergavenny Now A Music Extravaganza Is On Its Way to Raglan



May 17, 2005 -- Local music lovers agree that Wales' collection of world-renowned annual cultural festivals will be gaining another notable addition with the inaugural Raglan Music Festival to be staged from the 10th to the 12th June. An eclectic group of top artists from the folk, jazz and rock world will descend on Raglan in Monmouthshire, in a celebration of music aimed at encouraging participation among the local community as well as bringing an influx of visitors & commerce to the village. The three day festival - which will feature live performances at a range of venues, and a host of free activities such as individual music lessons and workshops for under 18's - will be officially opened by new MP for Monmouthshire, David Davies on Friday the 10th at 8pm.

The festival will consist of concerts in various venues around Raglan, as well as performances and workshops available through the day. Already confirmed for the event are the 'super-group' Loco All-Stars, Folk legend Eddie Walker, Usk Youth Brass Band, Wye Valley Chorus and many others. The evening concerts at the Beaufort will culminate on the Sunday evening with a set from one of Wales' most exciting young rock bands the Bitchpups. Aspiring musicians and young people interested in music have the opportunity to learn from some of the very best in the music industry in sessions all through the weekend. Highlights include open jam sessions, music lessons on a variety of instruments, and live dance performances.

The festival has been made possible thanks to collaboration between Monmouthshire County's Rural Community Action, and a host of private companies in the area. "We're very excited about the range of performances and other activities planned for this first annual Raglan Music Festival," said Shirley Hughes, Community Development Worker at Rural Community Action, which has contributed a grant toward the funding of the event. "By supporting the Festival, we're confident that many sustainable community benefits can be brought to Raglan and the surrounding area, both culturally and economically."

Andrew Thomas, Managing Director of Total Human Solutions, one of the event sponsors, is also looking forward to the festival. "From our perspective it isn't just about experiencing great live music," he said. "We see it as a great opportunity for us to contribute to the community in a new way."

The organisers of the event state their primary aim as to appeal to and involve all of the local community, regardless of age or musical taste. Organisers hope this to be the first in a long line of successful annual music festivals based in Raglan.

Local rock legend, Geoff Downes said: "Having toured round most of Europe and South America this year, it's great to be back in Raglan and bringing some of that energy to the local community. I am looking forward to this becoming a regular stop on my schedule."





Literature Goes to Hay Food Goes to Abergavenny Now A Music Extravaganza Is On Its Way to Raglan