Every year in summer, the International Musical Eisteddfod in Llangollen brings competing choirs, dancers and world-class musicians to Wales. Conny Kaufmann has a look at what Llangollen 2010 has in store for visitors.

Picture by: Sonjiag

Since 1947, the annual Eisteddfod has been the starting point for many careers in music and dance. Up to 5000 visitor flock into the small Welsh town, and turn it into a cultural melting and meeting pot for a week.

This year's festival will take place from 5th to 11th July. Although the Celebrity Opening Gala concert line-up has yet to be announced (check the Llangollen 2010 website from 20th March onwards), the organisers are already certain that it will be "a night to remember" and not to be missed.

The next day is a Children's Day about exotic traditions during the day, before Karl Jenkins and pianist Llyr Williams take to the stage with The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace along with the Sinfonia Cymru making it's Eisteddfod debút.

Wednesday will see the International Song & Dance Day, with choirs and folk dancers from all over the world participating. At night, the One World, One Stage event will be hosted by Terry Waite and include a procession of performers through the Royal International Pavillion.

Thursday is all up for Youth Entertains, inviting young singers and folk dancers to the stage with Songs from the Shows as well as the biggest ever Junior Children's Choir. The evening will see Shine with Bond, and international dance acts.

The organisers of the International Eisteddfod call Friday the "essence of Llangollen" as it's the Celtic and Folk Day. New competitions have been set up for folk performers, which will be a first at the festival. At night, award-winning ensemble Only Men Aloud will perform Welsh favourites.

Bring the whole familiy Saturday for the International Family Day with activities for all ages. There will be competitions and crafts, and the best male and female choirs of the world. In 1955, Luciano Pavarotti won the choir competition along with his father, and he returned to Llangollen in 1995 as star performer. The best choirs will have a "sing off" at night to be names Choir of the World, and receive the Pavarotti Trophy.

Sunday marks the end of the Eisteddfod, with violinist Nigel Kennedy taking the stage together with his full orchestra and band. As the festival's star performer, he will join the rangs of Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Plácido Domingo and Montserrat Caballé.

Many star musicians started their careers in Llangollen - one more reason to come and see what makes this small Welsh town so internationally known. And who knows, you might see the next Pavarotti live on stage!