The Guiting Music Festival sees classical, jazz and blues artists from all over the world converge upon the village for 10 days of music.

At almost half a century old the festival is the biggest event of the year in the village, which has a population of less than 300 people.

“I moved here in 2014 and was amazed to discover this remarkable community event right on our doorstep,” said Katherine Judge, the current Chair of the festival. “It was even mentioned in the estate agents notes!”

Katherine, a retired book publisher started volunteering at the festival soon after moving to Guiting Power, and after a few years helping organise the event became Chair last year.

“The festival is run by volunteers,” she continued. “Some are very long-serving, and most live in the village or nearby in a neighbouring village.

“It started in 1970 as purely classical music at the village hall. Around 15 years ago jazz was introduced – blues and jazz are really popular in the Cotswolds and Gloucestershire.”

This year sees a performance at the village hall and neighbouring field every day from Friday 19th to Sunday 28th July.

It all begins with the award-winning duo of Welsh harpist Catrin Finch and Senegalese kora player Seckou Keita.

“The first weekend we like a big name to kick off things,” said Katherine.

“They’ve played all over the world and combine Welsh and Senegalese music to make a totally unique sound. They’ve actually already sold out!”

Also appearing will be The Elias String Quartet, Italian-Dutch pianist Saskia Giorgini and soprano Ruby Hughes.

“It’s come to a point where, even though we’re a small event, we have approaches from musicians all over Europe to play the festival,” added Katherine.

The festival takes audiences outdoors on Sunday 21st July with their Open Air Jazz Festival and Open Air Blues Concert on Sunday 28th July.

Katherine said: “These are always popular concerts, people can bring picnics and we have food and drink on offer including a pizza van and a fish and chips van.

“You can book in advance or pay on the gate for these concerts, in case people want to see what the weather is doing!”

But even if the British summertime continues to underwhelm, there’s no chance of the Guiting Music Festival doing the same.

With their 50th anniversary just around the corner, Katherine has already started looking ahead, but can’t wait to enjoy what is set to be another great 10 days of music.

“We have a very loyal audience,” she added, “but we’re always trying to attract younger people to come along.

“The perception is that classical music is for the elite but it isn’t, and we’ve got so many young up-and-coming artists working hard to publicise how fun it is.”

The Guiting Music Festival runs from Friday 19th to Sunday 28th July.

For more information, tickets and the full line up visit www.guitingfestival.org