In the last five years Thomas Kemp has helped put West Malling on the musical map as part of a mission to bring top-flight music to the area.

Back in 2010 the small market town was best known for its pubs, history and community feel, but that was before Thomas moved back to West Malling – and realised classical music was sadly lacking there.

He grew up in the town and was taught to play the violin at school, when learning an instrument at school was heavily subsidised.

Those music lessons led to his career as a world class musician, conducting renowned players and orchestras. Today, Thomas also spends his time organising the Music@Malling festival, which brings international players to venues around the area for a week each year.

Now in its sixth year, Music@Malling will see musicians including James Pearson from Ronnie Scott’s in London, Stile Antico and Chamber Domaine, as well as professionals joining with hundreds of local primary school children to perform Peter and the Wolf.

It promises core classical music as well as compositions from contemporary composers mixing jazz, vocal, world and film music, all set in historic buildings and venues.

Thomas said: “I was so passionate about the violin when I was young. I used to have my lessons in a kitchen next to the ravioli, but it didn’t put me off.

“Today the access to instruments is minimal and there is little music in schools.

“I think it is an important thing to do and there’s nothing like it in this part of Kent. I try and arrange programme it so it isn’t elitist. It is a very friendly and relaxed atmosphere. We try to make it as accessible as possible.”

“We try and involve every child as much as we can. We are trying to show that music is for everybody, not just an affluent few. I also try to bring back some musicians each time as the audience has built a relationship with the artists.”

BACK TO BACH

This year’s Music@Malling has a Bach Pilgrimage theme with performances being held at West Malling Abbey on Monday, September 26 and two churches along the Pilgrims Way – All Saints’ in Birling and St Peter and St Paul’s, Trottiscliffe – on Saturday, September 24.

There will also be a film music night on Saturday, October 1, at the grade II listed Control Tower in Kings Hill, which will feature premieres of music by famous film composers, such as John Williams.

Sponsorship for this year comes from a range of sources including Arts Council funding.

FESTIVAL DETAILS

The sixth year of Music@Malling runs from Friday, September 23 to Saturday, October 1. For full details go to music@malling.com

For tickets, which start at £5, call 01732 770929, visit the website or Tonbridge Castle Tourist Information. For general enquiries call 03453 191043.