Belfast is set to come alive with the sounds of summer thanks to a programme of live music performances in the heart of the city centre.
The Belfast Music Summer Season was officially launched by the city’s Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Peter McReynolds today at Bank Square, at a new pop-up performance space that will host a number of events over the next two months.
From opera to rock, ceilidhs to choirs, the programme which runs from July – September has something for everyone.
“We had our first Belfast Music Summer Season last year and were blown away by its success,” said Councillor McReynolds.
“With our ambitions to secure UNESCO City of Music status in mind, it’s important that we showcase our rich musical talent and heritage at every opportunity, and this is a great way of animating the city centre and proving that we are a city which celebrates and nurtures creativity.”
Many of the Summer Season performances will take place in the new marquee at Bank Square, an area where businesses were greatly impacted by last year’s fire at Bank Buildings.
Councillor McReynolds added: “Council is committed to continuing to support our business community and looking at new and imaginative ways of revitalising our city centre. Most of the performances are free and every musical taste will be catered for, as well as all ages, to reflect our vibrant and varied local music scene – so all you have to do is turn up and enjoy.”
Kwa Daniels, Belfast Music project manager, said: “Last year’s foundation of great events has allowed us to push the artistic and creative boundaries further again.
“As well as the Bank Square performances, we’ve got opera and musical theatre in the Victoria Square dome, drone painting workshops inspired by DJ sets, pop-up choirs, and even some pop-up cinema events to celebrate Belfast’s musical history from the 1960s through to present day.
“All of the artists and performers are really excited about taking part, and it’s shaping up to be a great summer for music in Belfast.”
To round off the programme in September, the Summer Season will come to an end with an impressive Mix The City Live event at City Hall on September 20, as part Belfast’s annual Culture Night.
It builds on the success of Mix The City Belfast which was launched earlier this year, in March, when Hannah Peel curated an original score by collaborating with 95 artists, musicians and creators.
Some of the artists involved in the project including Katie Richardson, No Oil Paintings, Kaidi Tatham and Steve Davis will be there on the night.
To find out more and to see details of the full Belfast Music Summer Season programme, visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk/belfastmusic
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For further information and media enquiries please contact: Press Office, Belfast City Council Tel: 028 9027 0221