Funding for music-lovers to host a gig in their local area

Our Big Gig will take place from July 11 - 14 with 275 community events being selected to receive funding.

The gigs will be free to attend, with a focus on showcasing the best local talent.

Communities Minister Don Foster said: “These events will provide free music, entertainment and the chance for people right across the country to meet and get to know other residents of their city, town or village.

“Last year 200,000 people attended free concerts over the closing weekend of the Paralympics, and just like the games themselves they brought people from all walks of life together. The government is keeping the Olympics spirit alive and making the games and their legacy benefit current and future generations and these concerts are an important part of this.

“I’m calling on all aspiring musicians and their communities and councils across the country to come forward and set up a free local concert this summer to showcase every kind of music and instrument from accordions to xylophones and zithers.”

People can choose where to hold their events, from school halls to concert halls, indoors and outdoors.

The funding comes from the Department of Communities and Local Government and Arts Council England.

Alan Davey, chief executive of Arts Council England, said: “Our Big Gig will be a real summer highlight. Up and down the country, communities will be involved in running their own music events, in a range of venues, introducing audiences to new bands, artists and styles of music.

“This is a great opportunity for communities to think big, to nurture home grown talent, and to come together, in celebrating the many joys that music can bring. I can’t wait to see the results.”

If you, or someone in your community would be interested in running one of the music events, the application deadline is May 12.

Applications to become a Community Event Organiser can be made online or by completing a word version of the application form and sending it to [email protected]

You can apply to host an ‘Our Big Gig’ and find out more information at www.ourbiggig.co.uk.