The Croydon Music Festival has kicked off, with over 3,000 people taking to stages across the borough in the next three months.

The Festival got underway on April 21 at Whitgift School and continues at Royal Russell School, the Parish Church and the Ashcroft Theatre, until June 5.

The performances are adjudicated by professionals with certificates for all entrants and awards to be won in every section.

Organisers have reintroduced concerto classes with a tantalising £500 prize and an opportunity to perform as a soloist with the London Mozart Players and the Surrey Philharmonic Orchestra.

For more information call 020 8654 6713 or visit www.croydonmusicfestival.co.uk