/Two Iconic Music Venues Re-Open This Summer

Two Iconic Music Venues Re-Open This Summer

There are many reasons why a music venue might close its doors, but one main one why it might re-launch and re-open. That reason is that someone out there has the passion, vision, determination, and the material things, to bring a venue back to life, back in fashion, and working in today’s market.

Today, I’m happy to announce that London and Manchester have found such people, who are currently preparing to re-launch two iconic venues back into the music scene. These venues are The Tabernacle and Band On The Wall.

The Tabernacle Building in London’s Notting Hill, has been described as a place that has seen it all. It has seen the area grow from a slum into one of London’s trendiest areas, and has played its own part in Notting Hill history through the arts. The Victorian Theatre has played host to a diverse range of musical and acting talent, which ranges from Pink Floyd and The Rolling Stones, to Santana, The Clash, Ray Winestone, and Harry Enfield.

The Tabernacle of today will continue as a multi-use arts space, and will host a mix of exciting community and commercial events. After its major refit it also boasts a brand new restaurant, bar, dance studio, gallery, and recording/rehearsal space. There is something for everyone to enjoy, and it will all be showcased throughout the summer with Tabernacle Live. Events include several book slams, an international calypso show, and carnival comedy. A summer of fun for all the family will culminate in an exciting re-launch party on August 31st, which is also the last day of the famous Notting Hill Carnival. Details of this event are yet to be released, but it’s sure to be something special. While we await the news, why not visit www.tabernaclelive.co.uk to find out more about the venue and its confirmed summer events.

It’s not just the Tabernacle that’s rising like a phoenix from the flames though; Manchester has its own relaunch planned for Band On The Wall. Band On The Wall was christened in the 1930’s and has a long history in the Manchester music scene. During it’s heyday in the 1970’s punk scene, acts like the Buzzcocks and Joy Division regularly played there, and the venue more recently attracted singers like Bjork and Simply Red to its stage. Since closing in 2004, it has undergone a transformation, and is now ready to return to the forefront of music. The former Victorian pub now boasts a performance space and concert grand piano, media equipment and recording studios. It’s now, as press material so aptly quotes, a place “for music to be seen, heard, made, advised, and signed”. Adding another string to its bow, the not-for-profit organisation that runs the venue will also offer an education program. People of all ages will be able to enjoy classes teaching everything from dance to drumming and music technology. There are also plans for a community choir. The local community will also be able to enjoy the eclectic mix of artists in their concert schedule. The international line-up includes Bassekou Kouyate from Mali, singer-songwriter Lucy Kaplansky, and dancehall/reggae star Yellowman. The fun will all kick off with the venues official re-launch on September 25th, which features a concert with soul singer Mica Paris, and jazz pianist Julian Joseph. Visit www.bandonthewall.org for more information.

Music.co.uk welcomes back these two music icons, and hopes that many of you will continue to enjoy both venues, and all they have to offer for many years to come. Here’s to creating another chapter in live music history!

Click here for our interview with the Band On The Wall Owners