What's it about? A less than obvious name for an entirely classical music event or, as Meurig Bowen, the latest director of the festival dares to call it, ‘Art Music’ – this year’s bill manages to span 800 years of musical history. If you’re down with ‘classical’, then this is probably the UK’s biggest exposition of the style outside of London and means you can catch performances by some of the most prominent names in the business.

This year’s show takes place over 16 days and is literally packed with events each day. With performances by the Elias String Quartet, the BBC Philharmonic, saxophonist Amy Dickinson, John Potter and so many more, along with a host of screenings and talks (including Christine Riding talking about the painters in Schubert’s life), this is fit for an aficionado and a more than ample introduction to the interested beginner.

There’s some decent activities for kids during the event too, with Cereal Samba which invites families to join in composing a new work from the sounds of cereal. Yes, cereal.

An inventive festival but don’t be put off by the classical leaning, there’s plenty of stuff to get involved with and some genuinely exclusive performances. Have a scope through the website and you’ll be surprised

Book now if you love: Cassical music, really… or have an open mind

Don’t miss: Argentinean pianist Ingrid Fliter

Want to go? See the official website for details of bookings for individual events:
cheltenhamfestivals.com