Northumberland is set to host the biggest free music-making weekend of the year.

Organised by UK charity Music for All, the annual flagship event, Learn to Play, is returning in 2024.

It aims to provide everyone in Northumberland with the opportunity to participate in a weekend of free music-making.

The event is scheduled to take place at Core Music CIC in Hexham from October 11 to October 13.

Participants can take part in guitar lessons as well as other musical instruments Participants can take part in guitar lessons as well as other musical instruments (Image: LTP)

It is open to all, irrespective of age, experience, or background, and offers participants the chance to experience a free taster music-making lesson.

Learn to Play seeks to inspire, encourage, and enable both new and lapsed music makers to enjoy the benefits of music-making.

It also aims to connect and champion UK music providers through a shared celebration of music.

Children playing guitarsChildren playing guitars (Image: LTP)

Sonali Banerjee, Music for All's general manager, said: "The Learn to Play weekend is needed now more than ever, and through our regional music-making events, we aim to inspire as many people as possible in experiencing the unique joys and benefits of music-making.

"The arts enrich our lives, our community, and economy, as well as improving our mental health.

"We welcome all age groups and particularly encourage youngsters who may not have the opportunity to experience music lessons at school to come along and try out an instrument of their choice."

Music for All is committed to ensuring equal access to music-making and supports disadvantaged individuals, educators, and community projects through cash and instrument award rounds throughout the year.

The charity highlights the positive impact of music in supporting and enhancing mental and physical health.

Musician and Music for All ambassador, Jamie Cullum, said: "Playing a musical instrument is an amazing thing to have in your life.

"Sadly, not everyone has the opportunity to have those experiences.

"I am proud to be a supporter of the Music for All charity and delighted to be involved in their work in changing lives through music.

"I encourage everyone to participate in a Learn to Play event near them."

In addition to the event, the Music for All YouTube channel will feature a series of online tutorials by professional musicians.