A FESTIVAL of music is being held at a North-East college for the first time this weekend.

The Ushaw Festival of New Music - at Ushaw College, near Ushaw Moor, County Durham - will take place on Saturday and Sunday featuring performances on the clarinet, piano, organ and guitar.

Festival director Tim Harrison said: "This is the first time we have had a festival at Ushaw College.

"Indeed it is the only festival of its kind in the North-East. We have been immensely lucky to have been able to secure such a fabulous and diverse collection of top quality performers for the weekend which gives the event a terrific start in life.

"We are looking forward to seeing the festival grow over the coming years."

Tickets are available in advance by calling 0191-373 8517 or by paying on the door. There are five recitals costing £8 each, £5 concessions, or festival tickets can be bought for £25.

Bed and breakfast accommodation at the college is available costing £18 per person per night (plus £6 en suite).

Advance booking is essential by calling Cathy Osbourne on 0191-373 8502.

For more information on the festival call Tim Harrison on 0191-373 8607.

Published: 10/06/2004