The 2013 Bendigo Blues and Roots Festival officially kicked off at the Gold Dust Lounge on Thursday night.

Across the four day annual festival more than 100 musicians from across Australia will take the stage at more than 20 different Bendigo spaces.

Budding young singer Luke Harrington was among some of the first performers to open the festival.  

The 13-year-old played guitar alongside his music teacher Peter Gavin.

Festival director Colin Thompson said this year’s program was filled with new and exciting events.

“We have thrown in a few things that we haven’t done as much before like free music in the streets and in different public spaces,” he said. 

“We have showcase for Rock Pride Music students.

“We have got original singer/songwriter showcases that aren’t necessarily too deep into the blues and roots side of things but as a festival we do have an opportunity to shine a light on these acts. 

“We have got plenty for blues purists as well.”

Mr Thompson said each year the festival wanted to concentrate on making it better not bigger.

“We are not interested in huge headliners we will leave that to the Big Day Out and other blues festivals,” he said.

“What we are trying to do and what I think we are achieving is putting on a quality grassroots event.

“We are utilising local talent and local services and it’s also put together by local people.”

For more information, or to download a festival program visit www.bendigobluesandroots.com.au