By Nick Mabey.
This year’s two-day free music festival, Music in the City, in the heart of Southampton, on September 28th and 29th, promises to be bigger and better than ever before. With over 300 artists in more than 50 venues there’s bound to be something for everyone.
For those of you who don’t know of this annual event, Music in the City is a great way to explore some amazing locations that show off the history and culture of the city, while at the same time supporting and enjoying a diverse range of local, grass roots music. I first attended in 2016 and particularly enjoyed going from a joyous blues romp in the Platform Tavern to a surreal heavy rock performance in the underground vaults on the high street, via a ukulele jam at Holyrood church (all of which are happening again this year.
I caught up with Chris Orr, who has taken on the running of Music in The City and asked him first what his own memories were of Music in the City.
“I’ve been a few times over the years, but aside from last year not so much recently,” he admitted.
“It suffered, like all events, from covid. Like many people I suspect, for me, one of the more memorable parts of it is its unique offering of music in unusual places, for example the medieval vaults in Southampton old town. This is something I love about it and I have focused and built on.”
From occasional visitor to leader of the whole thing is quite a step. I asked Chris how that happened
“I met one of the guys who was running it, having got recommended to him to do some marketing material. We got on well, and it became clear it was under resourced and in need of some help. I offered, because I love putting on an event and have a passion for live music, and long story short – I’m now running the show!”
I wondered what Chris himself was anticipating most
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the journey so far, over the last five months, but it’s the actual weekend now that I am really looking forward to,” he said.
“I’m as nervous as I am excited! I’m very much looking forward to seeing if the branding is successful in making a noticeable red splash across my home City of Southampton. I’m also excited about the new and unusual venues, the most unexpected being IKEA with choirs performing on the Saturday. This should surprise and hopefully delight a few shoppers, at the same time as being a new and enjoyable experience for all the singers! “
He continued: “There is a team of 110 people helping deliver the event and I really hope they all find it both rewarding and enjoyable. A special mention in particular to two awesome local musicians, Michael Davies and Pete Harvey, who have been a huge help.”
The size and scale of Music In The City should not be underestimated. It’s not possible here to preview every act performing, nor even every venue hosting. Thankfully there’s a great website where you can explore everything and build your own personal line-up. If you want to find out more go to musicinthecity.org and feast your eyes on what’s coming.
Keep an eye on In Common for reviews and if you’d like to share your thoughts about or photos of the event, please email: editor@in-common.co.uk
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