THE versatility of the recorder will be fully explored at Malvern Theatres next month.

The Great Malvern Recorder Festival, on April 2-4, organised by Malvern Fringe, has become a major national event for lovers of this underestimated instrument.

Topping of the bill is the world's finest recorder consort, the internationally acclaimed Amsterdam Loeki Stardust Quartet.

They will not only be performing, but conducting master classes. These will present players with a unique opportunity to develop their techniques with the help of the world's finest virtuosos.

The UK's foremost baroque performers, the Palladian Ensemble, will feature in the Forum on the Saturday night, performing music for violin and recorder.

Lovers of contemporary music will enjoy Susanna Borsch and Ned McGowan, who will show how the recorder and flute can be projected into the 21st Century, using modern technology

Music theorists will be delighted at the concert by Peter and Kathrine Bowman, Notesplitting - Recorders and Microtones, where they will "explore the spaces between the notes".

The medieval Nonimus Minstrels will play on Saturday and Sunday afternoon in the atrium at theatre, while Fontanella tread the boards in The Real Dick Whittington with Neil Ruckman.

This will be followed by the nationally-acclaimed Piers Adams Roadshow. No-one who witnessed his last performance in Malvern will forget the fantastic atmosphere as over 100 children practised and performed together for the first time.

All day on Saturday, there will be workshops for players of all levels, including the Society of Recorder Players, the Youth Recorder Orchestra with Colin Touchin (for players from 11 to 18) and the All-comers Improvisation Workshop.

These present opportunities for players of all ages to enjoy themselves, improve their technique and to understand the power and range of the recorder.

Local school parties are particularly welcome. Full details of all events are available on www. malvernrecorderday.co.uk or from Tim Cranmore on 01684 563313. Performance bookings should be made through Malvern Theatres' box office on 01684 892277.

Festival funding comes from the Arts Council, Malvern Hills District Council, First Base at Worcestershire Council and Malvern Town Council, with particular thanks to Cellpharm for sponsorship of the Palladian Ensemble.

Recorder groups will also be playing on Sunday, April 4, between 1pm and 4pm in the Forum Theatre. Entry is free and everyone is welcome to attend.