From 4-14^th July, JAM on the Marsh returns to the unspoiled landscape of Romney Marsh for its 11^th festival. The programme features a stunning array of international and local artists, lighting up the Kent coast with music, theatre, film, poetry and art. Unfolding in a variety of intimate locations; from the famous mediaeval churches to local gardens and steam railway carriages; JAM on the Marsh will bring the arts to unexpected places. Festival Curator Nicholas Cleobury brings highlights from New York, Vienna, Soho and Canterbury to Romney Marsh in an unmissable multi-arts festival, guaranteeing unforgettable experiences.

How has your time as curator been at the JAM on the Marsh festival?

Hugely enjoyable, which means I hope I've contributed with enthusiasm. JAM on the Marsh has an outstanding team to work with, and the location and concept is brilliant. Being in the county of my birth adds an extra thrill. A sense of place is vital for a festival, and the stark beauty of the Marsh, with its 14 medieval churches and other venues (the biggest seating only 400), gives an intimacy to all the events - 'world class up close'. It has allowed me some indulgences, last year for example, the music of Messiaen and Tippett, this year Mahler and Viennese Waltzes. My passion for new work, commissions and composer courses, work with children and other talented amateurs (last year the Community Oratorio Sky Engine and this year's pro/am orchestra, aligns perfectly with JAM's ethos. With music alongside Visual Arts, Poetry and Theatre, building on local talent, it does all the things a Festival should do. It has integrated wonderfully with the local community, who also contribute in so many ways, and it is fast attracting people from far and wide - what's not to like?

Tell us about the atmosphere of the festival

This question begs some adjectives! Friendly, inclusive, relaxed, approachable, affordable... I could go on. Our smaller venues allow a real connection with artists, as well as being aesthetically pleasing. As a working environment, it is extremely supportive, and our visitors, guests, audiences, call them what you will, come to a welcoming and relaxed environment. Like other festivals I know well, Aldeburgh and Orkney to name but two, the place becomes integral to one's overall experience, all watched over by the ever-present sea.

What is the festival doing to remember Holst in his 150th year?

We are programming Holst's St Paul's Suite and Song of the Night. The latter in the context of 1934, the year in which three great English composers died - Delius, Elgar and Holst. The year in which, amongst others, two remarkable composers were born - Harrison Birtwistle and Peter Maxwell Davies. A pivotal year in British Music. We look back and we look forward.

What do you think is the most important next step for the protection and promotion of choral music in the UK?

In many respects, choral music in the UK is in good shape. We do it well, over a wide range of genres. JAM, alongside others, has contributed over 25 years to the composition and performance of new choral music, by established and up and coming composers. The organ features hugely in JAM's repertoire, as does the Onyx Brass quintet. There is some wonderful repertoire combining them all. Choral music is appreciated widely, witness the outcry about the closing of the BBC Singers. Cathedral and church music are not secure in many places, and money is tight across all the Arts. All this must be addressed, but the most "important next step" for choral music must be to foster singing in state schools. Music generally, with some exceptions, has been side-lined in the state sector, and for so many reasons - health, well-being, social skills, emotional maturity, must be brought back.

For full information about JAM on the Marsh events and tickets (£0-£20), go to www.jamconcert.org  Under 18s are free to all events