The Shanghai World Music Festival will kick off on April 28.

Musicians from 11 countries and regions, including the United States, France and India, will perform in Pudong, Xuhui and Changning districts during the eight-day event.

The festival, which was initiated in 2008, will be co-sponsored by the National Music Industry Park, Shanghai Synergy Group and Shanghai H+M Communications Co Ltd.

"Music lovers will have a chance to enjoy 40 performances free in seven local fashion and cultural landmarks," said Zang Yanbin, vice-president of Shanghai Synergy Group.

He said some renowned artists will be invited including Bombay Jayashri, one of the most outstanding vocalists in India.

She was invited by Mychael Danna, music director of the film "Life of Pi," to write the theme song with him and record it for the film.

Other performers include the Eva Quartet, a female vocal group from Bulgaria and Amina Annabi, a French singer-actress who has combined North African and European music.

Home-grown talent will also be heard with a choir from the Dong ethnicity in Liping, Guizhou province, set to enchant the audience.