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2025
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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

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

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

“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.”

“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.”

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

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

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

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

“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.”

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

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

“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.”

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

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

“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.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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