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A free music festival showcasing world class musicians from around the globe will take place this summer against the backdrop of Southampton's medieval walls. Tapestry Festival, which is part of the city-wide celebration of the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen, hopes to fill the gap in the UK summer festival calendar caused by iconic festivals like WOMAD, Africa Oye and Cambridge Folk Festival being on pause this year. Taking place on Saturday and Sunday July 19 and 20 at Westquay, Tapestry is giving the Jane Austen celebrations a contemporary twist.
Living in Southampton in the early 1800s, Austen had a passion for folk music, though the sounds she heard then were far different from what fills the city’s music venues now. Organisers playfully asks the question, what kind of music might she be enjoying today? (Image: Tapestry) READ MORE: John Power of Cast talks Oasis and more ahead of Southampton Summer Sessions From the sensational, rousing 'queer folk' music of the Goblin Band to the Northumbrian pipes of Kathryn Tickell; to the boundary-pushing sounds of Indian sarod virtuoso Soumik Datta and the spellbinding, wistful songs of vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Alice Zawadzki, organisers say Austen would surely be entranced by it all. Tapestry presents a stunning range of talent, from leading figures to rising stars.
From the celebrated, distinctive voice of Sam Lee, one of folk’s most renowned musicians, to the emerging brilliance of Irish guitarist Muireann Bradley whose country blues fingerpicking is capturing widespread attention. A number of exclusive performances will take place, alongside original music created specifically for the occasion, some of which will honour Jane Austen. Highlights include a special collaboration from master kora player, Seckou Keita, a luminary among the newest generation of African traditional musicians.
(Image: Tapestry) There will also be a number of performances from local musicians representing Southampton’s vibrant music scene, including Southampton Salty Sea Dogs and Pooja Angra. The festival, featuring folk, Indian classical music and African rhythms, is hosted by Radio 3’s Music Planet presenter Lopa Kothari. Tapestry performances will run from 2pm to 8pm on both days with entry free and unticketed.
(Image: Tapestry) Festivalgoers can enjoy a range of food and drink options throughout the weekend with offerings from local vendors as well as Westquay's large restaurant offering..
