AN alternative to the traditional Christmas carol concert will be staged in Blackburn next weekend, as part of Twelfth Night celebrations.

The concert, A Garland for Christmas, aims to offer music and song in a different way to the usual carols as part of the show and will be held at Blackburn School of Music on Sunday .

It will feature classical music, songs, poems, and readings by British composers, poets and authors and will also give visitors a chance to hear the musical stars of the future.

The programme includes a recital of classical songs with a Christmas theme by mezzo soprano Helena Kean and accompanist Paul Greenhalgh, readings and poems by writer and lecturer Brenda Kean and songs by Ralph Vaughan Williams and Lancashire composer Alan Rawsthorne.

Helena said: "We wish to reflect the inspiration that Christmas has brought to British poets, writers and composers.

"This dark time of year can be brightened with uplifting entertainment which avoids the tinsel and commercial glitter and captures the true spirit of goodwill."

The young musicians' showcase features the talents of two teenage Lancashire musicians Sebastian Smallshaw, pianist, and Laura Feeney, violinist. They will each be doing a short recital of classical music.

Organised and promoted by Music & Images Classical Events and sponsored by Blackburn Shopping Centre, the performance starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets, priced £8, or concessions £6.50, can be bought from King George's Hall on 01254 582582 or online at www.music-for-christmas.co.uk. Tickets are also available at the caf at Blackburn School of Music in Preston New Road.