Budding Barry Douglases take note! Pianists of all ages and abilities will be given an opportunity to perform an informal concert in Victoria Square shopping centre in Belfast on October 19.

Due to be broadcast on BBC Radio 3 as part of a celebration of amateur music-making across the UK, the Belfast event will be matched by similar ‘pianothons’ in Cardiff, Manchester, Glasgow and London throughout October.

The aim is for continuous playing to last about eight hours with a fun and encouraging atmosphere. Anybody interested can check out the details at www.bbc.co.uk/radio3/classical/pianothon

Meanwhile, September 18 in the Sonic Arts Research Centre in Belfast will see a cutting-edge music performance by two local composers, bassist Alan Niblock and saxophonist Roy Mitchell.

The pair, collectively known as Ambient Forces, will be joined by percussionist Paul Carvis, an experienced musician who has performed with many renowned musicians, including Mick Jagger, Elton John, Sting and Annie Lennox. The concert will feature improvised music and freeform compositions. Box office: 9024 6609.

The full programme for the upcoming Belfast Festival at Queen’s has recently been unveiled.

One of its highlights is undoubtedly Opera Theatre Company’s production of Debussy’s artfully compelling Pelleas and Melisande, which will performed in the Great Hall at Queen’s University on October 24 and 26.

The opera tells the story of Goulad, who meets and marries the alluring and mysterious Melisande.

When Goulad introduces her to his family, Melisande is unfortunately attracted to his younger brother Pelleas. A trail of disastrous incidents follows the dysfunctional family.

This performance will feature Hugh Tinney and Mairead Hurley performing the abridged arrangement of the score on two Steinway grand pianos.