THE stage is set for Ely Cathedral s May Day Concert, starring top clarinettist Julian Bliss. One of the biggest events in the cathedral calendar, the May Day concert always draws a large crowd. This year s event, featuring 18-year-old Bliss, and sponsor

THE stage is set for Ely Cathedral's May Day Concert, starring top clarinettist Julian Bliss.

One of the biggest events in the cathedral calendar, the May Day concert always draws a large crowd. This year's event, featuring 18-year-old Bliss, and sponsored by the Ely Standard, is sure to be no exception.

Described by The Independent newspaper as "the talented young British musician whose playing lives up to his name," Julian was discovered young and has already established himself on the world concert circuit, and has chosen Saturday to come and play in support of the Cathedral Music Appeal.

A favourite of the royal family, he has appeared at the Golden Jubilee in front of a live television audience of 12,000, at the Proms, and to audiences in 40 different countries. He was also the subject of a Channel 4 'fly on the wall' documentary, entitled Gifted. Even though he has only just turned 18, Julian has already toured Australia and China, and given recitals at top classical venue Wigmore Hall, as well as the famous Louvre in Paris. He has also studied at the Royal Academy of Music.

Hertfordshire-born Julian will be joined at the concert by the Ely Imps, who made their debut at the May Day Concert in 2006. The 86-strong group of singers consist of primary and secondary schools all over the Ely area, from eight-year-olds to teenagers. Choristers from the cathedral will also perform a range of Richard Bennett songs and a few jazzy numbers from songs commissioned by the National Youth Choir of Scotland. The theme of the musical programme is the arrival of spring.

Paul Trepte, director of music at Ely Cathedral, said: "We are delighted that Julian has kindly offered to take time out of his busy schedule to come and perform here in aid of the appeal. He is an inspiration to many young musicians and especially the other youngsters we have performing at this year's May Day Concert."

INFO: To purchase tickets for the May Day Concert this Saturday (May 3) at 7.30pm, contact the Ely Cathedral box office on 01353 660349 or visit www.cathedral.ely.anglican.org. Tickets are priced from just £5, and premium tickets with seating in the Octagon are priced from £30.