Director Mike Merritt explained that, following the launch of the festival last week, a well-known Canadian-based artiste has been in touch and indicated she wants to take part.

Mr Merritt said: "We're talking about a leading female recording artiste, though we don't want to identify her until everything is confirmed. She's very keen to come but she needs either a grand piano or a baby grand piano and unfortunately we just don't have access to one. We'd appeal to anyone who could help us out to get in touch."

Mr Merritt said it had been hectic since the launch, with enquiries coming in from all over the world.