TWELVE packed August days filled with music concerts, morning recitals, masterclasses, talks, plus a visual arts exhibition - from Kirkby Lonsdale to Penrith and across to Keswick, and pretty much everywhere in between, Lake District Summer Music 2003 aims to sweep the county.

"It certainly keeps us on our toes and on the road quite a bit during the festival," Renna Kellaway LDSM artistic director informs me.

"We are still busy putting the final touches to the schedule but I hope that this year's programme will prove to be even more successful than last year's, which drew record box office figures.

"It features the Chilingirian String Quartet, of course. They have been part of our programme since the very beginning in 1985 and are always a firm favourite with audiences. This year will see them participate in a mini-celebration of the Dvorak centenary with pianist Barry Snyder, another regular LDSM favourite, violist Garfield Jackson and the outstanding American cellist Steven Doane. Barry and Steven will also be performing together in what will, I am sure, be an electrifying recital.

"The festival kicks off with the Camerata Ensemble's first LDSM appearance. And other new artists such as international award-winning Trio Ondine and a young, early music group Abendmusik perform.

"And we're also thrilled that one of the world's leading youth orchestras, Jeugdorkest Nederlands will play as part of their UK tour.

"As our many regulars already know LDSM is unique in its partnership of International Festival and Summer School and young talented musicians play a central role in our programming. Recitals by enthusiastic and talented youngsters are dotted throughout the festival and throughout the region. Indeed, we believe that LDSM covers more square mileage than any other UK Festival."

Visit the LDSM website for more details on www.ldsm.org.uk or contact the box office on 01539-724441 for festival brochures.

January 9, 2003 10:00