Audiences North East

Newcastle has been nominated by Arts Council England to compete for the title of ‘Most Musical City’.

With a rich musical heritage ranging from The Police to The Animals and Mark Knopfler to Maximo Park – Newcastle has won the tightly contested nomination for the North-East. The campaign to find the Most Musical City was launched by the Arts Council’s ‘Take it away’ scheme which makes musical instruments affordable and accessible for all. People can register their support and vote for their Most Musical City at www.mostmusicalcity.co.uk

Former ‘The Police’ front man and local hero Sting is spearheading the campaign for Newcastle to win the public’s vote, up against other big names including London endorsed by Suggs, Birmingham backed by Jamelia and Leicester legend Engelbert Humperdinck.

Newcastle faces some stiff competition as the other cities competing to win are: Birmingham; Brighton; Bristol; Colchester; Leicester; Liverpool; London; Manchester; and Sheffield.

Mark Robinson, Executive Director, Arts Council England North East, says, “The North East is a hive of musical activity with a wealth of new talent and a history of world class acts. I’m delighted Newcastle has been nominated as one of the country’s most musical cities, we’re hugely proud of the talent we’ve exported internationally from Sting to The Shadows.
“The North East continues to develop musical talent through excellent facilities and venues, most notably the world class centre for music, The Sage Gateshead. The unique landscape and heritage in our region has often given singer songwriters inspiration for their lyrics and melodies, producing a raft of performers.

“Newcastle may have unleashed the musical talents of Gazza and PJ and Duncan, but I’m sure this won’t be held against us as Newcastle is voted most musical city!”

As well as finding the nation’s favourite musical hub, Most Musical City will also help un-earth some of the stars of tomorrow. Unsigned bands and solo artists can register online for the chance to represent their Most Musical City and play in front of 5,000 festival-goers at this year’s End of the Road Festival alongside some of the biggest names in British music. There are also 25 pairs of tickets to the festival up for grabs for anyone who registers their vote.

Mary-Alice Stack, Development Manager, Arts Council England said: “Music is at the centre of our culture, one of our greatest exports and an endless source of debate. Strong contenders for the title of Most Musical City are Manchester, Liverpool and London, but with the winner to be decided by public vote, the competition is wide open. So whether you’re a fan of rock or rap, classical or crunk – get voting!”

To vote for your Most Musical City, enter the End of the Road festival ticket giveaway, register your unsigned band or leave a message of support for your favourite, visit www.mostmusicalcity.co.uk