World famous violinist Nicola Benedetti who is used to playing to packed crowds of thousands of fans is putting on a special performance for just 150 people - in her family home.

The acclaimed classical violinist will perform in the house she grew up in and first played violin in when she was just four-years-old.

One of the most sought-after violinists of her generation, she regularly makes appearances in the world's leading concert halls.

But later this month she will return home to West Kilbride, North Ayrshire to host the intimate concert as part of a fundraiser in aid of local music.

Glasgow Times:

(Picture credit: Robert Perry/ Herald and Times)

Nicola, 31, said: "I love performing in Scotland, and what could be better than in your own home?

"I have just been involved in a concert with 1,200 young instrumentalists at the Royal Concert Hall in Glasgow and it was incredible.

“I love the straight forwardness of the people and I love the closeness you get in front of an appreciative audience."

Inspired by the ambient setting after her sister wed in the home last year, she decided there would be no place like home to help local aspiring artists.

READ MORE: The Eagles singer Don Henley drives to South Ayrshire

She said: "My sister was married in the home last September and it was so lovely and got me thinking.

"We have transformed the space for performing inside and it will provide a very beautiful and intimate evening for an amazing cause which I am very passionate about.

"All monies raised will go towards music provision in North Ayrshire and that is very important to me."

Glasgow Times:

(Picture credit: Robert Perry/ Herald and Times)

The prestigious one-off event takes place on Sunday, July 14 and Nicola will be joined by jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis.

Nicola added: "Obviously I grew up there, playing all the time, but this will be quite unusual circumstances.

"Obviously, you are opening up your private home to people you don’t know, but we all decided that we were going to go for it, and hope it goes smoothly.

"It was largely my mum’s [Francesca] idea - it was not something that I imposed on her.

"I think it’s something that she really wanted to do.

"I am very excited about it, I think it will be quite an evening for everyone who is coming."

READ MORE: Hit BBC TV show Murder Case reveals life really is murder for detective Nikki

This special event will include a one-hour recital from Nicola and regular duo partner, pianist Alexei Grynyuk, a buffet dinner, followed by a one-hour recital from the Wynton Marsalis Quartet.

The award-winning violinist says she has 'so much love for the people and music-making in Ayrshire' and wants to do all she can to protect music education in the district.

She hopes this event will raise a significant sum of money.

Nicola said: "I want to do all I can to protect music education in the district and hope this event will raise a significant sum of money.

"Hopefully places the money will be channelled into will lead to other concerts which can raise funds for other causes and continue the positivity that music can bring."