To celebrate the HSBC Brecon Jazz Festival's contribution to music in Wales over the past 25 years, S4C will broadcast a special documentary on Saturday, 16 August.
The first Brecon Jazz was held in 1984 with the late legendary musician George Melly – who became a champion of the festival – among the first performers.
Since then, Brecon Jazz has gone from strength to strength, and many of the biggest names in jazz, including US icon Lionel Hampton, who pioneered the use of the vibraphone, pianist McCoy Tyner and saxophonist Sonny Rollins have played there over the years.
The top class line-up continues in 2008 with performances from celebrated artists such as singer-songwriter Joan Armatrading, saxophonist Maceo Parker and Cerys Matthews.
Cardiff saxophonist Osian Roberts, members of folk jazz band Burum and pianist Huw Warren take part in the programme. They explain how Brecon Jazz has broadened their musical horizons and consider how the festival's influence extends far beyond the borders of Brecon.
"This festival is totally different to every other," says Tomos Williams, who plays trumpet for Burum. "Jazz takes over the town, and there's no escaping it."
Burum are one of the most exciting bands to emerge from the contemporary jazz scene in Wales. The band experiment and create new interpretations of Welsh folk tunes and their performance at this year's festival is hotly anticipated.
Tomos believes the festival has been important for music in Wales over the past quarter of a century.
"The Brecon Jazz Festival has been a platform for Welsh musicians over the years, and it's a good way for them to get themselves recognised. It also gives us a chance to see world famous jazz artists performing in Wales – and that's a priceless experience," he says.
As well as the documentary, S4C will broadcast two highlights programmes from the festival on Saturday, 23 August and Saturday, 30 August. The first programme will focus on the Welsh musicians taking part, and the second on the international artists. All of S4C's coverage from the festival will be presented by Lisa Gwilym and Rhodri Owen.
© 2008 S4C
O Gymru / Made in Wales