MOZART, Beethoven and Brahms will be celebrated at Chipping Campden International Music Festival.

Chipping Campden International Music Festival, which runs from Saturday May 12 until Saturday May 26, has grown to become part of the local scene.

It offers a mix of performances by classical artists and young musicians, a programme built from landmarks of the chamber, piano and song repertoire, and an audience comprising local people, followers from across the UK and a growing number of overseas visitors.

Festival President Paul Lewis is set to join the Chipping Campden Festival Academy Orchestra and conductor Thomas Hull as soloist in Mozart’s Piano Concerto in C major K503 for the fortnight’s closing concert.

He will also perform the forward-looking music of Mozart’s Piano Concerto in B flat major K595 with the Festival Academy Orchestra on Friday May 25.

Ruth Rogers joins the orchestra on Wednesday May 23 as soloist in Bruch’s Violin Concerto No.1, part of a Festival Academy programme that also includes Paul Lewis’s interpretation of Mozart’s Piano Concerto in A major K414.

The festival opens with Elégie, a programme of music and words exploring the life and art of Sergei Rachmaninov, played by Lucy Parham and narrated by Henry Goodman.

Other highlights include Bach’s Mass in B minor, performed by Tenebrae and the Academy of Ancient Music conducted by Nigel Short Thursday May 17; piano recitals by Steven Osborne, Imogen Cooper and Stephen Hough on May 15, 19 and 23 an evening of violin sonatas by Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms from Alina Ibragimova and Cédric Tiberghien on Monday May 14.

“I have always been determined to book the very best artists possible,” notes Charlie Bennett, founder and artistic director of Chipping Campden International Music Festival.

“We aim to raise the bar higher every year, which is why we’re so delighted with the performers who are part of this year’s programme. Demand for most concerts usually outstrips the supply of tickets. Now we want to spread the message about the international quality of a festival that is rooted in the life of this part of the country.”

The Chipping Campden International Music Festival’s assets, from its Cotswold setting and tireless director to its Steinway D concert grand and majestic principal venue, have drawn many of the world’s leading classical artists.

“We know that performers return because of our terrific instrument and the outstanding acoustics of St James’ Church,” said Mr Bennett. “It’s great to see so many artists returning to Chipping Campden this year and to welcome such distinguished festival debutants as Stephen Hough, and the Jerusalem Quartet.”

For a full lineup, visit campdenmusicfestival.co.uk/