Bookings have opened, and the beautiful town of Darling is getting ready for the 5th Darling Music Experience from February 11 to 14.

It is a brainchild of conductor David Tidboald, composer Hendrik Hofmeyr and music enthusiast Alfred Legner. The festival was launched in 2006 with the aim to organise small concerts in a rural setting for both lovers of classical and more popular music.

Under the artistic directorship of South African-born German pianist Andreas Kern, the music on offer varies between classical and contemporary chamber music, popular choir works and Jazz, bringing together community ensembles and soloists with well known national and international musicians.

A top local composer is commissioned every year to write a piece especially for the festival and in doing so the Darling Music Experience nurtures and showcases the exceptional talent we have in our country.