A classical music version of the V98 Festival is on the cards in Essex this month.

The new event looks set to take place in Chelmsford at the end of February.

Stravinsky and Beyond sees the Britten Sinfonia, teaming up with local groups for a weekend packed full of workshops, discussions and performances of music based around the works of the great composer.

The event will follow the same model as the V98 festival in Hylands Park, in that it will be based in Chelmsford and Cambridge over two weekends.

It will also feature brand new contemporary pieces inspired by Bach and Stravinsky.

Brentwood Youth Orchestra will get the chance to work with experienced professionals when members of sinfonia join them for a performance on the final day of the festival.

The event - funded by a £150,000 lottery grant to Britten Sinfonia - aims to encourage people to enjoy classical music. It runs from Friday February 26 until Sunday 28.

The sinfonia's Helen Thompson said it was all about introducing new music: "It is about breaking down the barriers and letting people know it is all right to go and listen to different sorts of music."

For full details about the the event, call her on 01223 300795.

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