Ireland's largest jazz festival kicks off this evening in Cork with a performance by British jazz musicians the Humphrey Lyttelton Band, who have been together for over 50 years.
Humphrey Lyttelton is best known as the presenter of 33 years of the The Best of Jazz on BBC Radio 2. He also founded Calligraph records in 1983.
The bank holiday Guinness Cork Jazz Festival line-up also includes leading jazz guitarist Jim Hall, contemporary jazz trumpet star Dave Douglas and the funk soul combination of the Courtney Pine Band and Lynden David Hall.
Over 40,000 people are expected to attend venues in Cork this weekend, including a new all-seater club at the Imperial hotel.
The Savoy theatre has also undergone a £3 million revamp and will play host to gospel music stars The Blind Boys of Alabama.
Commercial director at Guinness, Mr John Coleman, said the introduction of different styles helped the festival to remain fresh.
"This appeals to the growing band of young, sophisticated jazz followers who increasingly make up the audience in Cork."
Young US stars appearing at the festival include James Carter, Kenny Garrett, of Miles Davis fame, and Geri Allen.
The festival will utilise 10 major stages and over 1,000 musicians from 27 countries.
There is also a full range of fringe events, from workshops to street events.
The festival is currently in its 24th year.