This, the 36th edition of the festival known internationally for its mostly-free programme of good time jazz, blues, swing and rhythm & blues will again present performances in unusual places: museums, libraries, shopping areas, public squares, canals, a furniture store as well as in bars, cafes and hotels.

And as always there’s more. A lot more.

there will be ree litterbug and lindy hop dance sessions, harmonica, photography and ukulele workshops open to all ages, the famous Texas Harmonica Rumble, a Make and Play Cigar Box Guitar session, a Sketch Crawl and a Barbershop Quartet – in a barbershop. There will be an exhibition of jazz festival photography, talks, discussions, Q&A sessions and music appearing in the most surprising places.

The Leader of Birmingham City Council, Cllr Ian Ward,commented, “[The festival] is an opportunity to come and see top class live music in clubs, open spaces and bars around the city, and just have a great time.”

While comedian Jasper Carrott added: “The cultural side just lifts Birmingham’s standing wherever you go in Britain. It’s a renowned jazz festival right in the centre of England that’s been going for 35 years, and no-one can match that.”