* Italian composer Ludovico Einaudi is a remarkable artist. The self-effacing pianist is the most unlikely of stars, yet his soothing, minimalist style has earned him a place in the hearts of music-lovers.

Even those unfamiliar with his name will know his mesmerising music, such as the haunting Le Onde – made famous for its use in a John Lewis advert.

His music has also been sampled by brasher artists - including hip-hop star Professor Green, who used the composer’s Berlin Song on his single Astronaut. On Sunday, Ludovico plays the second of Blenheim Palace’s Nocturne shows, with a set in the Great Court of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The concert is the composer’s only UK show of the year so far, and his first outdoor headline performance following his sell-out seven-show run at the Barbican.

The 12th Duke of Marlborough is rumoured to be a fan. He said, “I look forward to opening the gates of Blenheim Palace to this brilliant musician. The palace was meant to inspire as a location and the music in the Great Court will bring a new dimension of wonderment to our family’s history.”

* With all eyes on Glastonbury this weekend, a younger generation of stars are preparing for their own festival debut. Children across Kidlington are warming up for their own summer bash – Kidstock.

The event takes place at West Kidlington primary School, in Oxford Road, from 9am tomorrow, and involves rising stars from six Kidlington schools. Entertainment comes in the form of music and drama on three stages – all provided by the kids, with the exception of ex-Candyskin, Nick Cope.

The performances are being coordinated by Chuck Lloyd of The Rabbit Foot Spasm Band – who knows a thing or two about festivals. Deputy headteacher of West Kidlington primary School, Julie Holland, said: “Each year, Kidstock gets bigger and bigger. Last year 1,900 tickets were exchanged for wristbands for the children, families and friends. It is scheduled for the same weekend as Glastonbury for a reason!”