THE Armidale Eisteddfod continues to be one of the feature events on Armidale’s cultural calendar and entries are now open for the event now entering its 42nd year.

The competition program runs from May 13 to the June 3, with entries closing at 5pm, Friday, March 20.

The eisteddfod hosts a variety of sections and events for a wide range of ages and abilities, and offers audiences plenty of variety.

Choir Night, Band Night and the New England Championships are popular highlights, with the Gala Concert this year scheduled at 2pm, Sunday June 14 in the historic auditorium of the Old Teachers’ College.

Committee president John Hadfield said the eisteddfod gives young musicians and speech and drama students a chance to perform in front of their peers, parents, the public and, above all, the adjudicator.

The Armidale Eisteddfod continues to be one of the feature events on Armidale’s cultural calendar.

“It helps them build confidence in performing in public and they have the chance to receive feedback on their performance to help them grow,” Mr Hadfield said.

The eisteddfod commences each year with music composition, which includes the presentation of composers’ works and a workshop.

Held on Wednesday, May 13 at the Old Teachers’ College, the workshop is an excellent way for composers, young and old, to showcase their works and receive feedback.

The majority of events are held in the Old Teachers’ College Auditorium.

Admission ranges from three-dollars for a child’s single session, up to $40 for an adult’s season ticket.

Family passes for the duration of the Eisteddfod are $80, meaning the whole family can attend as many sessions as they wish prior to the Gala Concert.

The Gala Concert is $5 for children and $10 for adults.

“The eisteddfod could not happen without the wonderful support from the community, through sponsorship and volunteering, with no government funding received,” Mr Hadfield said.

“Armidale is a special place that truly values and appreciates the Arts.”

More information can be found at 42nd Armidale Eisteddfod.