ONE of Gwent’s smallest villages, Lower Machen, is gearing up for its 44th annual festival which kicks off on tomorrow.

The week-long programme of music takes place mainly at the 12th century St Michael’s Church, with the chorus of the Welsh National Opera performing at Newport’s Riverfront Theatre on Wednesday.

Artistic director Alison Esswood said she is hoping it attracts a wide range of music lovers of all ages, saying this year’s festival “covers a broad spectrum of musical styles and performers”.

The Lower Machen Festival was founded in 1968 as a weekend event, but has grown to the week-long programme that takes place now.

It starts on Tuesday, when the Welsh Chamber Players are joined by Matthew Jones on the violin, before the chorus of the Welsh National Opera perform music by Wagner, Brahms and Novello at the Riverfront on Wednesday.

Thursday sees pianist Llyr Williams in action, Friday is for young musicians such as baritone Bertie Watson and saxophonist Tyler Rix, while on Saturday Christian Forshaw and the Sanctuary Ensemble play.

It ends next Sunday with the Brodowski Quartet.

For further details of events, visit lowermachenfestival.

co.uk For tickets, call 03700 101051 or see ticketsource.co.uk/ machen