A PIANIST presenter Jonathan Ross dubbed “the best in the civilised world” will take part in Taunton School's first ever piano festival this weekend.

A run of workshops, recitals and concerts kick off at the school from Friday until Sunday, in conjunction with Yamaha, one of the biggest brands in the piano and keyboard world.

FRIDAY night's 7pm concert 'Two Pianos and Friends' will give the festival its official opening in Taunton School Chapel, with a repertoire including Bartok's virtuosic Sonata for Two Pianos and Percussion.

On SATURDAY, it's Ross's favourite, Harry “The Piano” Harris who'll be taking an improvisation workshop from 11am in the Chapel.

International pianist Martin Roscoe then takes over with a masterclass at 2.30pm in the same venue, followed by a piano recital at 6.30pm, dipping into Brahms, Beethoven and Chopin.

Harry will then return for his recital in the Old Library at 9pm, after a pre-show champagne reception at 8.30pm.

On SUNDAY, pianists of all skill levels can take part in a selection of workshops and seminars in association with Yamaha and the European Piano Teachers Association, led by Professor Michael Young.

To book tickets for Saturday's recital and cabaret show, £15 each, and to register for the piano workshops, visit www.tauntonboxoffice.co.uk or call 01823-703111.