May 21, 2009 -- The curtain goes up on a global celebration of music when the Black Horse Festival gets underway this weekend. The festival celebrates its 21st this year and will showcase music from around the world and closer to home over four days from Friday to Monday.

It takes place in a marquee behind the Black Horse pub at Telham.

Over the past two decades the festival has showcased top quality music from the four corners of the globe while providing an important platform, and in some cases launching pad, for the wealth of musical talent we have in this area.

Big names this year include Jim Moray whose latest release Low Culture was Mojo Folk Album of the Year, and winners of a BBC Young Folk Award, Uiscedwr.

Topping the bill on Friday night is guitarist Aynsley Lister, who has been compared to a young Eric Clapton and Stevie Ray Vaughn.

Sunday's rich and varied feast of World Music sees the return of stunning six-piece world fusion act Achanak. Their infectious rhythms cannot fail to get people up and dancing

Abdelkader Saadoun brings the pulsating sounds of Algerian Rai music to the festival with his current outfit of nine musicians using North African percussion as well as brass, keyboard, piano, viola, cello and electric guitar.

Monday afternoon offers the chance to spot future stars with a showcase of young bands including Wear Wolves and To The Moon Alice.

The festival ends with a party celebration on Monday night with Blair and the big band sound of the Red Stripe Band - think Jools Holland.

Mick Hoad, from the festival committee, said: "One reason for the festival's popularity is the hugely respected World Music day On Sunday. There is nothing like it in the south east now and it is a chance to see bands of a wide and eclectic mix of musical styles on your door step for a fraction of London prices."

Brewers Shepherd Neame have created a commemorative Black Horse Ale, specially for the festival to mark its 21 years. There will also be the usual range of quality food and children's entertainment.

Tickets for festival sessions range from £5 - £11 in advance or £5 - £15 on the door. Weekend tickets are £42.

They can be bought online or from The Black Horse on 01424 777767; Hastings Tourist Information Centre, Priory Meadow, 01424 451128.

They are also available from Barraclough & Stiles Opticians at Battle High Street (01424 772725); Western Road, Bexhill (01424 219543) or London Road, St Leonards (01424 423605)

For more information on the festival line-up check out the web-site at www.blackhorsemusicfestival.org.uk.

Full colour souvenir programmes are available from tourist information centres in the area or from the Black Horse pub.