MUSICIANS looking to perform at next year's Worcester Music Festival can get their applications in now.

The free festival will also take place at a later date next year in a bid to involve more students in the music scene.

Thousands of people flocked to the city in August this year to see more than 250 bands and singers perform at venues all around the city across the three day event.

Next year's festival will take place from Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20 to coincide with Fresher's Week at the University of Worcester.

Ant Robbins, festival chairman, said: "There are many local festivals in August next year, which got us thinking about other dates which might work well.

"With so many students in the city in September there will hopefully be a great buzz, while it also gives our live music fans an excuse to extend their festival season.

“As for our fantastic, original bands and artists, who all generously play for nothing to help us keep it free for music lovers and raise money for local charities, it’s that time of year again to get your application in and be part of one of the fastest growing, urban festivals in the UK.

“It is the chance to reach new audiences, sell CDs and meet hundreds of fellow musicians, while organisers, who are all volunteers, work hard to promote bands who take part. Musicians also benefit from the opportunity to meet venue owners and gig at places they would not normally play and secure paid gigs. We look forward to bringing even more talent to the fore in 2015.”

The festival was launched in 2008 and raises money for different charities each year.

Last year, the festival raised £4,601 for Worcestershire Young Carers.

As well as live music to see, the festival organises workshops for people to attend and other art and dance displays.

To apply to perform in 2015, visit www.worcestermusicfestival.co.uk/artistsapply before the closing date of Tuesday, March 31.

For more on Worcester Music Festival, visit www.wumufest.co.uk and follow the festival on Twitter @worcsmusicfest.