Music Scene: Bands, Choirs, DJ Set, Festivals, Gigs

We all need a little music in our life or make that a lot. Read on for the bands, choirs, gigs, festivals and karaoke you'll find at the University and down the road in our amazing city.

 

I WANT TO......

 

Play music

Our Music Centre runs music groups which are open to everyone. The good news is that you don't need to audition or have reached a certain grade. Can't find the group you want? Start your own which is how acapella choir and ukulele group began. Meet and rehearse together in our Music Hub practice rooms.

On Monday evenings, The Railway Inn hosts an open mic event. Bring your instrument, bring your friends. Free entry too. Still our favourite price.

Sing

We've got choirs like the King Alfred Singers, who have been together since 1972, and ShowChoir if musical theatre is more your thing. For less formal singing, there's karaoke in The Vault on campus or at Alfie's in the centre of the city. 

Experience live music

The Railway Inn is the main live music venue in Winchester and, for a different vibe and outstanding venue, try a concert at Winchester Cathedral. The Arc has regular live music nights, as well as comedy, theatre and exhibitions. The Nutshell hosts contemporary jazz. Nice.

 

 

I WANT TO......

 

Bring my vinyl

Overdraft has open mic nights for DJs where you just bring your records and play a set. They are also pretty amazing at Mexican food and craft beer. Yum.

Dance

The Vault and the Cathedral hold silent discos and our students love Alfie's and O'Neill's which both have a dancefloor. Alfie's is open until 3am. Just saying.

Go to a festival

Bring your stamina and energy gels for the immersive, theatrical and downright bonkers experience that is Boomtown. Every August on the outskirts of the city, you can expect reggae, punk, electronic, folk and a gazillion more things that you can only know by being there including dozens of secret venues hidden around the festival site. You have been warned.

Recreate the Ibiza vibe without the hassle of the airport at the Ibiza Orchestra Experience in the centre of the city where your favourites from the White Isle are performed by a 26-piece live orchestra. Fancy.

Other big festivals in the region (ok not Winchester, but not too far from here) include CarFest South at Laverstoke Park Farm and Victorious on Southsea Common.

 

 

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