Latest news with #MusicTrail
South Wales Argus
28-06-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
Newport Music Trail 2026 dates announced for March 2026
Last year's music trail brought 25 venues, 90 acts, and 36 hours of live music to the city across two days. Next year's event looks to build on these already impressive inaugural figures. This free event is curated with FOCUS Wales and will showcase some of the best talent from a range of different genres that Newport and the rest of the UK has to offer. Last year's music trail saw over 13,000 extra people visit the city centre over the two days and 2026 looks to increase that figure. FOCUS Wales' Andy Jones talks of his excitement for the event (Image: Newport City Council) Emma Stowell-Corten, Cabinet Member for Communications and Culture, said at the launch event: 'The night before the first day of the Music Trail last year, I thought 'what if no one turns up?' But by the time we got to 5PM on Saturday night I couldn't leave Le Pub for fear of not getting back in.' Andy Jones, co-founder of FOCUS Wales, said: 'When we were approached about the project, I was immediately excited because there's lots of great bands and venues involved.' Newport Music Trail 2025 - all the highlights here Those who frequent Newport's thriving music scene, either on stage or as a punter, often share the same sentiment that the city has a rich and flourishing music scene that involves people from all walks of life. A wide variety of acts will perform across the city over two days (Image: Newport City Council) The venues themselves share this sentiment, with Sam Dabb, manager of Le Pub and chair of The Corn Exchange, saying: 'There are so many amazing venues in Newport who all work together, which is something you don't get in other cities.' The venues are in constant communication with each other, which only adds to the feelings of community and belonging that the music scene gives visitors. This event looks to build on Newport's already rich music history which spans from James Thomas Rogers, one of the earliest members of the musical community in the city, right up to Sam Fender's use of the iconic transporter bridge on the cover of 'People Watching'. With the constant growth of Newport music scene, the 2026 Newport Music Trail looks to become even bigger and better, attracting even more visitors to the city centre.
Scoop
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Heretaunga Hastings Music Month – NZ Music Month Celebrated At Industry Gala
Hastings will come alive with the sound of local music this May with Heretaunga Hastings Music Month – celebrating the artists, venues, and communities that make up Hawke's Bay's vibrant music scene. The month-long program will officially launch with the Hawke's Bay Music Industry Gala on Thursday 1 May, marking the start of NZ Music Month in the region. Held on the Opera House stage at Toitoi – Hawke's Bay Arts & Events Centre, the gala is a free event recognising the mahi of those on the stage and behind the scenes – from musicians and producers to venues, technicians, and promoters. The night is supported by the NZ Music Commission and will feature live performances, networking, and special acknowledgements of contributions to the local music community. 'This is more than just a night out – it's a celebration of the people who make music happen in Hawke's Bay,' says Kevin Murphy, Chair of the Backline Charitable Trust, which runs the HB Music Hub. 'We've got an incredible depth of talent here, and this event – and the month that follows – is about creating space to recognise that and support it.' Heretaunga Hastings Music Month will feature a diverse lineup of gigs and showcases throughout the city – from stripped-back sets in Opera Lane Acoustic Sessions, a Music Trail and a Laneway Party. The program has been designed to highlight local talent, encourage collaboration, and connect audiences with homegrown sound. 'Toitoi is proud to support local musicians and provide a platform for them to shine,' says Sarah Terry, Producer - Community Outreach at Toitoi Hawke's Bay Arts and Events Centre. 'New Zealand Music Month is a time to come together, and celebrate local stories which are the heart of our region.' All events are part of the nationwide NZ Music Month initiative, which encourages New Zealanders to support local music and the people behind it. Event Details: Hawke's Bay Music Industry Gala Opera House Stage Thursday 1st May 6PM Free entry – all welcome please register at
