A COLLABORATION between the area's to major festivals will continue later this month.

Cumnock Tryst is once again joining forces with the Boswell Book Festival to highlight the unique nature of these two East Ayrshire events.

This year's Tryst takes place from Thursday, September 28, to Sunday, October 1, bringing some of the world’s greatest musicians to local venues over four days and nights.

Those who attended this year’s Boswell Book Festival will know that the Tryst’s founder and artistic director Sir James MacMillan was a special guest.

He shared the stage with author Sir Charles McLean and actress Gerda Stevenson, skilfully evoking the unique spirit of the isle of St Kilda.

Now author James Knox, chairman of the book festival, will return the complement by appearing with talented Scottish musician, Paul MacAlindin.

They are getting together for Upbeat - The Story of the National Youth Orchestra of Iraq (NYOI) during The Cumnock Hour on Friday, September 29, at 4.30pm in the Dumfries Arms Hotel.

Cumnock Hour explores ideas and issues around music, and this year, the story of NYOI will be told from its inception to its eventual end, by its musical director Paul MacAlindin, in conversation with Mr Knox.

The NYOI came through the most difficult and dangerous of times to produce fine music not only in Iraq, but also in Britain, Germany and France.

Tickets are only £5 — visit the Tryst website for details as well as information about discounts for local residents and under 26s, and lots of free tickets, plus how to book online.

This year’s Cumnock Tryst features a broad range of music, from the ancient to the new, with jazz, folk, electronic and trad in the programme.

Local performers are featured alongside world renowned musicians including artists in residence Scottish Ensemble, the great percussionist Colin Currie, Westminster Cathedral Choir, young guitar superstar Sean Shibe, Dalmellington Band, The Wallace Collection and many more.