http://www.dartmusicfestival.co.uk
The Dart Music Festival's motto of 'Music for All' is without doubt a winning formula.
Ever since the Festival's inception in 1998, the eclectic mix of orchestral, rock, choral, blues, opera, folk, jazz etc, has won the hearts of both locals and visitors alike and become one of the star events in Dartmouth's calendar.
It also appeals to all ages, judging by the delightful elderly couple seen sedately jiving in the Avenue Gardens, down to toddlers watching their older siblings in their school choirs. There really is something for everyone.
"You can almost feel it putting it's arms around you and giving you a cuddle"
It's not only the chance of seeing and hearing wonderful music at every turn, for many festivals provide that. What makes this festival so special and much loved is the relaxed and informal atmosphere it manages to generate. Short it may be, lasting just one weekend, but its heart is enormous. As one visitor said last year, "you can almost feel it putting its arms around you and giving you a cuddle"
Dartmouth as a town plays its part too. Surrounded by swelling, cushiony hills, it's like being enveloped in a very comforting, soft duvet. With sunlight dancing on the river and gleaming on lovingly polished brass and silver, it's pure heaven on Earth, judging from smiles on faces.
There is music Day and Evening all over the town, from Bayard's Cove Fort at one end, to the Royal Naval College at the other; but there's so much on you'll need a programme to find out what's where, whether it's jazz in the pubs, rock on the bandstand or soaring strings in the church.
"Big Musical Hug"
If your appetite has been whetted and you fancy being part of that big musical hug, come for the whole weekend or even just one day and let this Festival's magic weave its customary spell.
Dartmouth Music Festival 2011
May 11th, 12th & 13th - 2011
