THE organisers of a popular county music festival are thrilled to be returning this year after an uncertain few years.
The future of Upton Jazz Festival had appeared uncertain in recent years, with organisers debating whether it should continue due to difficulties forming a committee.
For 2022, however, there is renewed hope for the festival, which has this year sold out on tickets.
Running on June 25 and 26, the festival is planned to be bigger and better than ever, with more free music on offer than ever in what will be Upton Jazz's 35th year.
Jon Parsons, from the Jazz Festival committee, said: "We have three events in one: there is a high quality programme of concerts, a full programme of Free to all gigs in pubs, clubs and cafes as well as our fourth Upton Jazz Fringe at the Swan Hotel, giving local bands the chance to play on the big stage.
Taking part in the festival are big nams from the world of jazz including David Newton, Emma Fisk with Hot Club du Nord and Craig Milverton.
Upton Jazz Rising Stars also returns involvng pupils from Upton Primary School, the Hanley Castle Swing Band, Winterfold’s Groove Diggers, Bromsgrove School and Worcestershire Youth Jazz Orchestra.
In 2019, a plan was revealed to secure the future of the festival.
This included running a reduced festival programme, the Upton Day of Jazz, for two years to shore up the festival's finances.
The plan was brought into effect after a number of years of low attendances and lack of committee members.
This year's festival not only includes live music, there is also an open mic session at Upton Baptist Church and a cae for people who want to take a break from the music.
The Tudor House Museum is also putting together a jazz window and exhibition.
Back at the Baptist Church, the Sunday service at 11am will be performed by Chris Walker and his Pedigree Jazz Band.
"Praise Indeed" is inspired by the congregations of the post-slavery Southern American states, and everyone is invited to join in.
There will be no parade this year, but residents are invited to come to the riverside at 11am on the Saturday for a gathering.
For more information about the festival programme, go to www.uptonjazz.co.uk/
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