Jazz musicians from the island are preparing for a busy few months, with local performers set to appear at festivals both on the island and further afield.

One group already preparing for an appearance off the island is Blue Vannin, who will perform at the prestigious Swansea International Jazz Festival on Saturday, September 5.

The local jazz group has been invited to perform centre stage at the festival, an opportunity member Jerry Carter described as particularly significant for a Manx band.

He said, 'I think it is very rare for a local band to be invited to perform at such a prestigious event.'

Blue Vannin's appearance in Swansea will come almost a month before the group returns to the stage for this year's Port Erin Jazz Festival.

Taking place on October 2 and 3, the festival will bring together visiting musicians and local acts across several venues in the village.

The Friday evening programme at the Erin Arts Centre will feature Brighton-based, BAFTA Award-winning group Full Circle, supported by local band Blue Train Big Band.

Saturday will see Beccy Rork and local quartet the Vanguards take to the stage at the Erin Arts Centre, supporting London-based musician Desmarais Trio.

Admission to these events will be £20 for one night, or £35 for both.

Alongside the evening performances, a free afternoon programme will showcase nine local ensembles across three venues.

The Riddler Bar and the Bay Hotel will host performances, while the Station Hotel on Station Road will be used as a new venue for the festival.

Audiences will be able to move between venues and experience a variety of local performers throughout the afternoon, with no admission charge.

Mr Carter highlighted the number of island musicians involved in the programme, which he said demonstrated the strength and variety of local talent.

Now in its sixth year, the Port Erin festival has become an established event in the Manx calendar, bringing live jazz to venues across the south of the island.

The combination of visiting performers and local musicians will create a programme featuring everything from saxophones and trumpets to piano-led performances.

Before both festivals take place, music lovers will have another opportunity to enjoy live music next week with the final concert of the Wurlitzer season at Villa Arcade.

The free lunchtime event will take place on Wednesday, August 26, from 1pm to 2pm.

Cleveland Medal award winner Jane Corkill will sing songs by Ivor Novello, alongside performances from Keith Simpson, who will play theatre organ music, and John Stillman, who will perform on jazz organ.

Admission to the Wurlitzer concert is free, offering audiences the chance to enjoy an hour of live entertainment without charge.

Blue Vannin's appearance in Swansea will offer a chance to showcase Manx talent on an international festival stage, while Port Erin's October programme will bring musicians and audiences together closer to home.

Tickets can be purchased through the Erins Art Centre for the paid events, or alternatively for more information email Jerry Carter at [email protected]