Fête de la Musique

June 21 marks the annual Fête de la Musique in France, with a huge number of events around the country and elsewhere that puts music front and centre of the nation's cultural life.

The idea is that events should be both public and free. Events are intended to be popular and accessible, and although it's a national celebration, it's one that takes place in the community.

For many it's a chance to attend an event without the usual hurdle of ticket price in the way, and at a time when household budgets are tight, an inclusive event like this is something worth celebrating.

The Fête de la Musique has been running since 1982, and this year's theme for the event is the voice, although the day sees music in its every hue, from hip hop to classical, jazz to rock, performed around France. Stages are set in public squares, museums, parks and elsewhere

Although primarily a French celebration, there are event around the world with 100 taking place elsewhere in Europe. A number are taking place in the UK, with shows in Glasgow, Edinburgh, London, Manchester and Belfast.

In Edinburgh, it is being celebrated at the Institut français d’Ecosse in the city's Randolph Crescent. The show gets under way with singer Rosie Nimmo, with a set combining jazz, folk and blues.

Belgian act La Clinik du Dr Poemback are on next, a brass band with 20 musicians bringing a vibrant take on world music, jazz and techno.

Glasgow band the Beat Poets are next on the bill, the underground legendary act who have brought a surf guitar and primitive rock 'n' roll flavour to the Scottish music scene since 1986.

Headlining are the band
Jack and The’ , a classy indie quartet led by Edinburgh-based French musician Julien Lonchamp. Their sound is a refreshing modern take on classic 60s pop.

The show is free, and with a wide variety of music on offer, there's plenty to enjoy.

Elsewhere in Scotland, La Clinik du Dr Poemback play in Glasgow on Saturday June 22 as part of the Fête de la Musique, with free shows at 1pm in the Botanic Gardens, 3pm on the steps of Kelvingrove Museum, and at 6pm in Ashton Lane.

A secret tonight (video) from Jack and the on Vimeo.