STORIES from the Arabian Nights and musical romances of royalty and slaves open Bishop Auckland's Summer Music Festival tomorrow (Friday).

The three-night event at Auckland Castle starts with a presentation from Joglaresa of an Odyssey of Medieval Mediterranean and Arabic music, song and stories. Tickets, including food, cost £13.

On Saturday, pianist Paul Lewis accompanies the Leopold String Trio in a programme of chamber music. Tickets are £7, £6 and £5, under 16s free. Saxophonist Andy Sheppard, pianist Steve Lodder and Chris Lawrence on the double bass play jazz on Sunday.

Tickets are from the cash office at Crook Civic Centre, Bishop Auckland Town Hall or Mari Macdonald, Wear Valley Arts, telephone (01388) 761605.