A fund-raising concert in support of this year’s Maidstone Music Festival gave an early taste of the musical talent in the area.

An audience of around 100 people gathered at the St James The Great Church in East Malling on Sunday to hear music from 42 performers of all ages and talents, ranging from young children to senior adults.

There were solo performances on the piano, cello, euphonium and cornet, as well as duets, individuals singers and an appearance by the Harmony choir.

Between them, they chose music ranging from Stephen Sondheim to Verdi and Mozart.

A tempting display of home-made cakes helped boost the total raised to £380.

Concert organiser Sue Greenham said: “It was fantastic. I think these concerts just keep getting better every year.”

The main event will be the two-day music festival on the weekend of November 28 and 29 to be held at Invicta Grammar School.

Amateur musicians of all abilities will be taking part in classes for their voice or instrument and will receive a helpful critique of their performance from the judges.

There are also certificates for the first, second and third placed in each group.

Classes range from piano, woodwind and brass, through recorders and accordions, to singing, folk and musical theatre.

The best performers will be invited to a Highlights Concert in December.

The deadline for entries to the festival has now passed, but members of the public are welcome to come along and hear the performances which start at 9am each day. All day entry is only £1.50.

Inquiries to Mrs Greenham on 01622 750943, or visit: www.maidstonemusicfestival.org.uk