An outstanding line-up, including some of the greatest names in jazz.

ALISON KERR finds much to enjoy in a trimmed back programme at Nairn.

AS DAVE SMITH’s cartoon reminds us, if it’s August it must be the Edinburgh festival extravaganza again. Kicking off right at the end of July with the Jazz Festival and taking in the full razzmatazz of the International Festival, the Fringe and the Tattoo, it will be a month of colourful mayhem amid the uncollected rubbish in the capital.

Newton Hotel, Nairn, 8-13 August 2005

Universal Hall, Findhorn, Wednesday 11 August 2004

Universal Hall, Findhorn, Thursday 12 August 2004

Universal Hall, Findhorn, Monday 9 August 2004

Universal Hall, Findhorn, Saturday 7 August 2004

THE FESTIVAL SEASON is still in full swing this month, and the Nairn International Jazz Festival takes pride of place in the opening half of August. Nestled amongst the swathe of folk music festivals and feisean around the Highlands and Islands, Ken Ramage’s festival has provided a focal point for jazz for many years. We will be providing review coverage of the festival, and our profile of Ken is this month’s ‘From the Archive’ feature.

Newton Conference Centre, Nairn, Thursday 7 August 2003