A POPULAR Chester busker is set to take to the stage at Chester Town Hall for a second time following the success of his first concert at the city centre venue.

Classically trained violinist Philip Chidell staged the first of two concerts at Chester Town Hall recently with the second one due to take place on Friday, September 27, at 7.30pm.

The first performance, which took place on Friday, September 14, featured Philip performing alongside his own ensemble of 10 hand-picked musicians.

The concert showcased several popular pieces of classical music including the 'Intermezzo' from Cavalleria Rusticana and 'Por Una Cabeza'.

There were also hits from the movies and the best of the West End and Broadway - all performed in front of a large, enthusiastic audience.

Philip said: "The first concert was such a joy, and we had a wonderfully enthusiastic audience. The feedback has been unbelievably positive, and to my amazement, dozens of those who attended have booked tickets to come back again for the second performance!

"The other musicians and I can’t wait to do it all again on Friday."

Full details of the concert can be found at www.PhilipChidell.com where tickets can be booked online. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased in person at Chester Visitor Centre at Chester Town Hall.

Philip began studying the violin aged six. Two years later, he was offered a place at the prestigious Chetham's School of Music in Manchester, becoming their youngest student at the time.

Philip was soon performing around the UK, and at 13 played for the first time as a soloist with an orchestra.

He has performed as a member of several ensembles and orchestras, in venues including the Bridgewater Hall, the Royal Festival Hall, Manchester Cathedral, Chester Cathedral and St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle. 

Philip has since gone on to become one of the most recognisable and popular buskers in Chester city centre where he performs regularly during the summer months, playing for residents and visitors alike using his 274-year-old violin made by German luthier Sebastian Klotz.