MUSICAL talent from across Nottinghamshire will take to the stage in May at this year’s Nottinghamshire County Show.
After the success of its debut in 2015, the music marquee is set to return as one of the highlights of the popular annual show with an even stronger line-up. Jazz quintets, ukulele bands and more will fill the marquee with the sound of music over the two day event on May 14 and 15.
The Nottinghamshire County Show has been known for its support of local musicians over the decades and last year the show introduced a dedicated music marquee as a buzzing musical hub.
Music steward Gabrielle Burgin Lister has played a key part in rallying the county’s best up and coming talent to perform at the show.
She said: “The music programme this year sees some new faces alongside familiar ones who have not performed at the show for some time.
“The idea has been to showcase the work of the many varied and mostly amateur musicians around the county and also further afield.
“We have included all abilities from near beginners to seasoned performers, and all ages from youngsters to 70-plus.
“There will be a variety of styles, embracing music of varying genres, so we hope it will have a wide appeal and that visitors will take a few moments to sit – with their picnic or cup of coffee if they wish – and enjoy what is on offer.”
President of the 133rd Nottinghamshire County Show and sponsor of this year’s music marquee, Geoffrey Bond (OBE), said: “I have had a long association with the show and remember first visiting it as a boy in the late 1940s so it is with affection and a sense of privilege that I accepted the Presidency for this year. My wife and I look forward to the event.
“The medieval fairs of England used music to make everything more jolly and the Nottinghamshire County Show is a brilliant continuation of this tradition.
“The show allows the visitor to see the best in farming and reminds them of its importance to the nation. The music played by young and old helps to create an ambience in which these messages are better received.
“The marquee will give amateur musicians the opportunity to perform at a major public event.”
This year’s music acts include the Carlton Male Voice Choir, the Nottingham Concert Band and gypsy jazz band Manière des Bohémiens.
Over the weekend there will also be performances from the Trent College music department. The college has a strong, well established musical tradition and will be performing for the first time at the Nottinghamshire County Show in a variety of different ensembles.
Jayne Olney, show manager of the Nottinghamshire County Show, said: “The music marquee was a huge success last year and we are really excited to see what the acts have instore for us this year.
“2016 will mark the county show’s 133rd year and every year it grows in both size and diversity. The addition of the music marquee really cements its commitment to music from Nottinghamshire.”
Tickets cost £15 on the gates or £10 for advance tickets online. Under 17’s go free and parking is free.
Advance tickets are available to book by telephoning 01636 705796 or online via the website – http://www.nottinghamshirecountyshow.com/the-show/buy-tickets/
To book trade space contact the Show Team on 01636 705796 or email rachel.frisby@newarkshowground.com
