Belfast will come alive this month with a series of free unplugged gigs in the city centre.
The ‘Inside Out’ initiative by Belfast City Council is playing on the successes of previous music initiatives like Belfast Music Week, which have been helping to nurture and grow our fantastic local music scene.
Bands and artists will perform at Cornmarket every Thursday and Saturday throughout August, culminating in a final showcase event at City Hall on 30 August.
Fully supporting the initiative, Lord Mayor Cllr Nichola Mallon said: “Belfast has a diverse music scene with so many talented young musicians as well as established artists. As Lord Mayor I want to see our city thrive, and for there to be a real buzz in the city centre with lots going on, showcasing the Best of Belfast.
“I’m delighted that we’re supporting this music initiative which will not only provide visitors and shoppers with some great free entertainment, but it will also give the bands and artists an opportunity to raise their profile and build their local fan base. There’s never been a more exciting time for the Belfast music scene, and indeed the Northern Ireland music scene as a whole. With the global spotlight upon us, we have a fantastic opportunity to showcase our musical talent and continue to build Belfast’s reputation as a destination city for music and culture.”
”This music showcase fits perfectly with my City of Enjoyment theme for my year in office, and my aim to be more creative in opening up the grounds of City Hall for greater engagement with our citizens,” she added.
The ‘Inside Out’ is being delivered by the Oh Yeah Music Centre which has programmed the gigs.
Bands signed up for the free gigs include Wookalily, Emerald Armada, Master & Dog, Silhouette and Malojian.
Artists and times will be announced on the council’s website www.belfastcity.gov.uk/insideout, Facebook www.facebook.com/belfastcitycouncil and Twitter @belfastcc – follow #BelfastLive for updates.
Belfast City Council is also working on another exciting music project for October which will see top industry experts arrive in the city and a series of pop-up gigs taking place in the Cathedral Quarter.
