At the BookFest launch

Last night the Edinburgh International Book Festival launched its 2019 programme, and what a programme! Writers from every corner of the world will be coming to Edinburgh to discuss topics from politics, nature and storytelling to history, fashion, poetry and activism.

There’s also a huge strand devoted to children’s books. Seeing the children enjoying the festival activities and reading their books on the lawns of beautiful Charlotte Square (in the sunshine, with luck) is one of the festival’s most enjoyable features.

This year I’ve been invited to talk about my book ‘Speaking the Piano’. On the 13th August at 8.45pm I’ll be in conversation with broadcaster Sheena McDonald. Tickets go on sale to the general public on 25th June. The book festival is wildly popular so be ready to book your tickets early!

Friends will be pleased to hear that Robert Philip is also appearing at the Book Festival to talk about his monumental ‘Companion to Orchestral Music’. His event is on Monday 12 August at 7.15pm.

Today’s Edinburgh Reporter carries a column about the writers resident in Edinburgh who are making appearances at the BookFest. They’re a distinguished bunch! We’re pleased to be included.