The beautiful and talented Imelda May was on hand to officially launch The Music Show 2010 in the familiar surrounds of Dublin's Liberties today.

To mark the occasion Imelda was presented with a framed portrait of her recent Hot Press cover by Niall Stokes, which he said was for her parents - who were both present - in recognition of her position as "one of the most talented Irish musicians of the past fifty years."

Her dad, she said, was a bit tired because he'd just come back from Electric Picnic where he had met "Brian Ferris of Roxy Music" which generated a big laugh amongst the assembled crowd.

During the rest of the public interview, chaired by Hot Press' Stuart Clark, Imelda answered questions on a range of topics, including her early influences, her current songwriting methods, why she gave up a potential role in The Commitments and the impact of appearing on Jools Holland.

When asked specifically about participating in The Music Show 2010, Imelda told the audience that she "couldn't recommend it highly enough."

She said, "It supports all kinds of music, not just mainstream music and gives everyone, young and old, the opportunity to learn about music and access to instruments and musicians that they can't get anywhere else."

During the course of a lively discussion Imelda was also at pains to point out that those looking to get involved with music shouldn't see TV shows like X-Factor as being their only hope.

"The best way to get into music is to practice hard, listen to lots of different music and perform as often as you can."

Also speaking at the launch, Niall Stokes commented, "It's shaping up to be a really amazing weekend. The Music Show was a fantastic success last year and this year it’s going to be even bigger and better. If you have a musical bone in your body, you really should be there! We’ll be announcing lots more key names and attractions. All told, it’s going to be a fascinating weekend of live music, exhibitions, master-classes, conversation and debate."

Among the acts appearing on the Live Stage of The Music Show 2010 will be Republic Of Loose, Damien Dempsey, Cathy Davey, Fight Like Apes, Mick Flannery and The Cast Of Cheers, with more to be announced soon.

The Music Show, presented by Hot Press in association with RTE 2fm, runs from October 2nd-3rd in The RDS, Dublin. Saturday 2nd October 10 am - 6.30 pm, Sunday 3rd October 11 am - 6 pm.

Tickets available on Ticketmaster
For more info see The Music Show's website