Acclaimed performers include pianist John Lill, cellist Natalie Clein and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, while a hotly-anticipated opening concert, The Brilliance of Baroque, features Armonico Consort, trumpeter Crispian Steele-Perkins and soprano Elin Manahan Thomas (October 11, 7pm).

Elsewhere, contemporary dance comes courtesy of the Rosie Kay company and there will be an evening of Bard-inspired song from Hatstand Opera, with dinner at the Welcombe Hotel part of the deal.

Family concerts will be provided by the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain and the Warwickshire Symphony Orchestra.

The popular lunchtime series at Stratford town hall returns, as does jazz at the White Swan pub and a range of workshops, featuring many of the concert artists. Any schools or colleges wishing to take part in the 2008 workshop series should contact Karen Gaymond at karen@gaymond.co.uk

For further information visit www.stratfordmusicfestival.com/ or call the box office on 01789 207100.