With over 60 music shops participating nationwide, Music for All can confirm that drumming legend Ian Paice of Deep Purple will be calling into Drumwright in Reading to lend a hand. Elsewhere, Whitesnake's guitarist Doug Aldrich, Drummer Brian Tichy and bassist Michael Devin will be helping out at Sheehan's in Leicester.

Commenting on the day, Ian Paice said 'Being given the gift of being able to create music is an incredible thing and most people don't allow themselves this pleasure. That's a shame. Try it, you could just make your life a whole lot more fun'. There are lots of other events all over the country including a special piano extravaganza by Markson Piano's at Foyle's Book, Charing Cross Road, London.

Pink Floyd's Nick Mason also commenting on the National Learn to Play Day said: "Learning an instrument isn't about becoming a star, anymore than learning to swim means you want to become a haddock......It makes friends, teaches you the real advantages of working with other people to achieve a common goal, and provides an enormous sense of sheer pleasure when almost any music is produced. I've been doing it for over forty year and still love it."

On National Learn to Play Day you will be able to experience free lessons on a variety of musical instruments, find out about local music teachers, meet staff from the instrument manufacturers and take advantage of many special offers. It offers the perfect opportunity for members of the public to start playing or make the move back into music, no strings attached!