Local musicians invited to step up to the mic
You may have noticed that Fridays in the city centre have become a little more colourful and livelier as a result of the Continental Shifts summer season of live entertainment. Now the city centre is going into overdrive for Friday 14th August when Hayward’s Guitars will be hosting an Open Mic Busk.
The idea is just the same as any open mic night: you turn up, book a slot and play. The difference is that instead of being in the traditional setting of a back room in a pub, you’ll be performing in Winchester High Street. Whether you play guitar and sing, or play the flute or violin, this will be a fun way of performing and meeting other local musicians.
Other entertainment lined-up for this week includes Spanish Flemenco, the haunting Eastern European sounds of Mae Karthauser, and the 6 piece jazz band Grandpa’s Spells.
Continental Shifts is being organised by Winchester City Council to brighten up the early evening period of Fridays in the summer holiday. Families and passers by have already enjoyed music by artists ranging from local band The Ashbies to international touring duo Kirsty McGee and Mat Martin. Shoppers have been reprimanded by pink policemen; watched Covent Garden-shows by the Buttercross, and even learnt about Winchester’s mysterious hidden creatures.
For more information on the Open Mic Busk, contact Christine Hayward at Hayward Guitars on 01962 850 555. If you would like to perform on the 14th August you can simply turn up between 5.30pm and 8pm, although booking a slot with Christine first will guarantee a place.
Continental Shifts runs until Friday August 28th featuring live music from around the world, street art, fine food and a lively atmosphere. For the full schedule, log onto www.winchester.gov.uk/continentalshifts.