In 1959, Hunter invited Yehudi Menuhin to become artistic director of the Festival, a post he held until 1968.
[3] The Festival has in the past included non-musical events such as talks and guided walks around the city.
The festival took place annually over 12 days in late May, and staged a range of events featuring orchestral and classical virtuosos, jazz, folk, roots and world musicians, with collaborations and commissioned works.
The programme was supported with films, talks, multi media events, music theatre, exhibitions, dance and site specific projects.
Other key sources of income are ticket and other sales, contributions from trust funds, private donors and a range of commercial sponsors.