Two of the biggest music shows on television, Top of the Pops and Later with Jools Holland, will be hosted in the city this week along with countless live acts in what promises to be a true extravaganza.

From traditional choir singing and brass bands through Bhangra, rock 'n' roll and reggae, BBC Music Live 2001 will feature diverse sounds from around the world to tickle most people's fancy.

Bradford was chosen to co-host this year's event, along with Leeds and York, thanks to its contribution to the 2000 festival, which took in performances from 13 regions across the UK.

Festival director and devoted music fan Bill Morris, who has worked on the BBC project since it started in 1995, is counting the days until the West Yorkshire-based fun begins.

He said: "There's no other place where I would want to be this weekend because the way the whole thing is coming together, if you're interested in music, this is the only place to be.

"There's more than 300 concerts with every possible type of music you can imagine, and I am personally hoping to get around to probably ten or 15 events each day, just by walking around Bradford, York and Leeds.

"In each city there will be the sounds, everywhere, of a real musical party happening."

The festival was officially launched today with musicians playing from a fleet of open top buses parading through the streets of Bradford, after visiting York and Leeds.

The musicians were then entertaining the crowds in Centenary Square until 6.30pm, when BBC Look North was broadcasting the grand opening.

Featuring a troupe of French acrobats swooping stylishly as they dangle from cords 140ft up in the air, Mobile Homme by Compagnie Transe Express (CTE) should leave jaws firmly hitting floors.

CTE is only one of dozens of street theatre groups which will throw a performance art flavoured spice into the musical mix.

Also tonight Look North was due to televise the grand final of its BBC North Choirs Fest at St George's Hall from 7pm.

Mr Morris hopes the variety of attractions will delight locals and visitors alike at each of the three venues.

He said: "It will benefit the city economically, but even more importantly the festival brings together music makers of very different sorts in a way that doesn't happen anywhere else.

"The sheer range of performers is absolutely right for Bradford because it epitomises the rich mix of cultures here, who each have their own unique musical contribution to make.

"The festival is about many things, but we will certainly be making it a celebration of all the good things which can come out of a multi-racial city."

Working closely with Bradford Council and Bradford Festival, Mr Morrison is certain the region is in line for a sonic party it won't forget for a long time - and which should leave a legacy for future exciting live events.

With most performances due to be covered by the BBC's radio, television and online services, millions are expected to tune in to this year's festival.

Mr Morris is excited at the prospect of exposing people to sounds they may never have heard before - and in some unusual venues.

He said: "There really is something special about what live music can do - you can see the effect wherever it's played, even if it's in a shopping centre or to a bus queue.

"I'm a music fan myself, really. I do play a little clarinet and piano, but I wouldn't claim to be a musician - I look on at proper musicians with an admiration of awe and envy!

"I really am looking forward to the whole thing, but I think Catatonia, who will be marking a very interesting return on Later with material from their new album, will be special.

"Top Of The Pops will have an interesting meeting of artists from the 1980s and now - and, of course, the audience will have to dig out their '80s outfits to get in!"