An inclusive celebration of music of all genres amidst the vibrant cultural heritage of Southampton. Culminating in an annual multi-venue music festival in September.

We are a CIC (Community Interest Company*) and not for profit, with 100% of our funds pledged to Music in the City and our events. We have essential support from, but are not owned or run by Southampton City Council or any other organisation. We exist for the musicians and the people of Southampton. We are always looking for investment and involvement from local business to continue our work and our 16 years of existence. Please do contact us if you could help us deliver Music in the City in 2025.

Music in the City performers
Music in the City performers
Music in the City performers
Music in the City performers
Music in the City performers
Music in the City performers
Music in the City performers
Music in the City performers
Music in the City performers
Music in the City performers

Our Purpose

Our mission at Music in the City is to promote the rich diversity of music in Southampton, celebrating its unique heritage and fostering cultural harmony. In diverse and unusual spaces, we raise spirits, bring communities together, and provide opportunities for musicians of all ages and backgrounds. Our annual free multi venue live music festival showcases established and emerging talent, supports wellbeing through music-making, and continues our tradition of presenting local musicians playing for the people of Southampton.

Our Objectives & Values

Diversity:

We showcase the great range of music in Southampton, from funk to punk, jazz, classical, indie, and more.

Celebration:

We strive to give music in Southampton the recognition it deserves by providing a platform for both established and emerging talent.

Community:

We encourage more people from all backgrounds to participate in music—fostering harmony through singing, playing, learning, performing, or simply enjoying.

Heritage:

Music in the City brings music to unusual spaces, celebrating the city’s unique and rich heritage.

Collaboration:

We build connections across musical genres, cultures, communities and businesses in Southampton and beyond, working together to create an annual experience that supports musicians and delights visitors.

*application in process

“There was a lovely atmosphere, and a nice friendly crowd. I thought Johny and Katherine did a fabulous job in organising and supporting us artists.”

“Pure Rehearsal Studios: A superb weekend showcasing the amazing talent in the area. Well done!”

“Huge Congrats Chris Orr, a fabulous time was has by one and all and it was a pleasure and great fun volunteering.”

“The outstanding quality of the performers all day from 1pm right through to 8pm made me so proud to be part of the Southampton music scene.”

“What a weekend that was!! Huge congratulations to you for pulling that together, and organising the army of volunteers across the city.”

“Loved the total buzz around the city, music coming from every venue along the quay and high street and meeting so many other musicians.”

“The website was really good and made it really simple to view the programme and work out who was on and where.”

“Loved having the opportunity to be involved in a big event as a volunteer, and getting the chance to have a position of responsibility.”

“The volunteer at our location was a legend, very much appreciate his contribution, and the sound guy as well.”

“The marketing materials were really professional looking this year and the availability of posters, t-shirts etc gave a real cohesive and community look to the whole event.”

“We had a fabulous time. Can't wait to do it all again x. Thank you for the opportunity.”

“Just a huge thank you to the organisers. I doff my cap to you all.”

“Saturday helping to organise and play at Beards & Boards for Music in The City was one of the best days of my life.”

“Loved playing in a vault, very different! The website with the option to plan your line-up was genius.”

“We were on the Hythe ferry with the Southampton Salty Sea Dogs. Absolutely brilliant little cruise. Thanks to all!”

“Thanks for pulling this festival together - what an amazing feat. It is a great thing!”

“The atmosphere around Southampton on Sunday was lovely - well done!”

“Loved the inclusive nature of the event - all welcome to take part and contribute. The 'let's go for it' attitude and positivity from Chris Orr.”

“What I loved most was the energy, creativity, and dedication behind the scenes.”

“Loved all of it! The atmosphere, the people, the music, Southampton felt alive and vibrant!”

“Loved the audiences - really good crowds everywhere.”

“I think this was the biggest and best yet! So many people had flocked to the city for the event. Very well organised event and I always love playing each year.”

“Loved the opportunity to play in an unusual venue, and to meet other musicians.”

“The amount of work and collaboration that has gone into this event is incredible. Everyone should feel very proud of such an achievement.”

“Loved the positive atmosphere from bands and punters, interest from passers by and cruise ship passengers, the inclusivity.”

“Loved the whole day. The support and people being brought together ❤️”

“Amazing to have access to lots of Southampton's historic nooks and crannies over the weekend for Music in the City.”

“Volunteering gave me a first-hand look into the inner workings of live event operations, and it was truly inspiring to witness everything come together.”

“Loved playing in the lovely acoustic of the Art Gallery to a very large and enthusiastic audience.”

“Hats off to all involved in this event. It gets better every year 👏👏.”

“The amount of work and collaboration that has gone into this event is incredible. Everyone should feel very proud of such an achievement.”

“Loved the carnival atmosphere generated in the city, the camaraderie and the music.”

“Would love to be a part of this again! London Road Brew House went off!!!”

“The festival is an amazing conception, and great to be part of. I liked the idea of performing at unusual venues and filling the city with music!”

“Just the best festival there is. Love it.”

“It was a pleasure and privilege to be involved in such an excellent event.”

“DJing in the docks! 🚢 Amazing to play in parts of Southampton that are normally shut off to the public. We had a great time for Music in The City.”