More entries are being sought for a music festival which serves as 'a platform for live performance'.

Weymouth and Dorset Music Festival, which takes place on Saturday, March 4, is a non-competitive and all-inclusive day of music celebration.

It is returning for the first time following the pandemic and has 'held firm to its stated aspirations and joyful spirit,' artistic advisor Duncan Honeybourne says.

Anyone who plays a musical instrument or sings, either as a soloist, a duet, a group or in a choir is invited to take part.

The festival aims to provide a positive, friendly and encouraging environment for performers of all ages and abilities.

There will be verbal and written comments giving friendly and practical advice, and the opportunity for young and amateur musicians to share their skills and enjoyment with others without fear or intimidation. 

Pianist Duncan, of Weymouth, said: "For some young Dorset musicians, like me, the festival can open doors to the professional world of music, but to many more – and here is the strength of our wonderful festival – it remains a platform for simply sharing pleasure in something we all love."

There is not long left to get entries in with a deadline of February 1 fast approaching.

The festival will be held at St Aldhelm's Church and Centre in Spa Road, Weymouth and entrants will be invited to perform in a concert in which cups will be presented on Friday, March 10.

The festival is open to entrants of all ages and abilities. Entrants will have the rare opportunity to perform their music in front of an audience – many for the first time – and get feedback from a highly qualified and friendly adjudicator.

Adjudicated classes are being run for: Choirs & Vocal Ensembles; Vocal Solos and Duets; Musical Theatre; Piano; Strings; Orchestras, Bands & Instrumental Groups; Brass and Woodwind; Composition and Organ.

Organisers say audience members are needed to listen to music being performed by youngsters.

"The festival provides a whole day of music, from 9am through to 5pm and it would be great to have an audience for our young (and not so young) performers.

"Please come along and support our local music-makers!"

Family tickets to come and listen to the festival cost £5 and individual tickets cost £3, available at the door. Light refreshments will be available.

To register for the festival go to the Weymouth and Dorset Music Festival website at weymouthmusicfestival.co.uk/apply-now/