TICKETS are selling fast for the 2009 Tavistock Music and Arts Festival which will be officially opened on April 28 by the Mayor of West Devon, Cllr Terry Pearce.

This year's festival features diverse performances from rock bands and school choirs to opera singers and dancers, as well as featuring art exhibitions and literary events throughout the week.

Christopher Kirwin, chairman of Tavistock Music and Arts Festival, said he was delighted with the line up for this year's event.

Mr Kirwin said: 'It really goes to show the breadth of creative talent we have here in Tavistock.

'As well as being able to see some excellent performances, festival-goers can also take part in many events from dance classes to choral workshops and creative writing workshops.

'There really is something for everyone to enjoy.'

One highlight of the week's events is a lecture by Dr Tom Greeves, chairman of The Dartmoor Society about the mystery of the 'Three Hares'.

This symbol dates back to Ancient China but is also found on the ceiling of Tavistock's St Eustachius Church.

World Dance Day coincides with the festival and throughout Wednesday April 29, there will be a series of free dance workshops at The Wharf, which include sessions in salsa, tap, belly dancing, rock and roll and jive dancing.

The gala concert at St Eustachius Church on Saturday May 2. 'Baroque Masterworks', features the Ten Tors Orchestra, conducted by Simon Ible, with soloists Ruby Hughes (soprano), Carolyn Dobbin (mezzo soprano) and Jonathan Watts on organ.

The same evening, The Wharf hosts Rock On, featuring local performers including Rory Gilmore and Kitty and the Lost Boys.

The festival ends with a party at the Wharf Arts Centre featuring the Zimbabwean Chimanimani Marimba Band and a barbecue.