Musicians across Scotland are being encouraged to perform at care homes free of charge this Christmas as part of a new festival.

The Gift of Music Festival created by Suzzanne Fivey, a professional musician from Glasgow, will run from December 27 and 30 and in her own words “is a way of giving back to the community".

She founded the festival based on her personal experience of entertaining the elderly over the holidays throughout her childhood.

The opening performance of the festival was at Chester Park Care home and was well received by its audience as elderly residents spent the afternoon dancing and singing.

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Louise Dunlop, manager at Chester Park Care home, said it was great to see the residents getting into the Christmas spirit.

She added: "We welcome any kind of music in the home. It's such a good therapeutic benefit to residents - physically, socially and emotionally."

Suzanne has set up a Facebook page to allow musicians taking part in the festival to share their experiences and ideas in a bid to encourage everyone from bagpipers to singers to get involved and help the elderly have a wonderful Christmas.

The Facebook page is also a way for solo performers to interact with other musicians and organise a group performance in their local care home.