A bumper line-up of local talent has already been drafted in for this year’s Bridgnorth Music Festival. The annual event, held during the last week of August and first week of September, is designed to raise the profile of local music and venues while raising money for charity.
The 2009 festival begins on August 28 and will see music being played all round Bridgnorth and surrounding areas. Festival spokesperson Sam Hayes said any bands that had not been signed up, but would like to get involved, needed to contact one of the organisers to get a venue arranged for a performance.
“We want as many venues as possible to get involved, not just pubs, but also cafés and clubs – basically we want to get everyone involved,” she said.
“Thanks to everyone who supported us in 2008 including both Bridgnorth District Council and Bridgnorth Town Council; without their grants we couldn’t continue.
“Also thanks to all the bands, venues and others who got involved, and not forgetting everyone who came and supported us, helping to raise almost £4,000 for Hope House.”
The main events lined-up so far include: a live concert in High Street on August 30 from 12 noon; live acoustic and unplugged sessions on the quayside, August 31 from 12 noon until 6pm and live music in the castle grounds,September 5, from 12 noon until 5pm.
And, for the first time in it’s four year history, the festival will feature a local electronic act in the form of Ribside, at the Bell and Talbot, on September 3.
“This is yet another first and it shows just how diverse it’s getting for this year’s Bridgnorth Music Festival,” added Sam. “We’re also chuffed to bits to announce an organ recital by William Nicholson, on August 31 at St Mary’s Church.
“William Nicholson was resident organist at Chester Cathedral and has performed at many of Britain’s great cathedrals and churches. The music will include an eclectic mixture of classical and contemporary classical organ pieces.
“Personally I can’t wait as the line up is getting better with every new announcement, so I hope to see you at the festival folks.”
Further information about acts will appear during the run up to the festival, or if anyone uses twitter they can visit twitter.com/bnorthfestival tokeep up to date with developments.