Firm foundations were made for more events of it’s kind, in the shape of The Buskers Banquet held on 4 November.
Instigated by local musician Brian Sharpe and with the assistance of staff at Ryde Theatre, the name, the poster and the idea were set into motion.
The aim was to attract as many musicians as possible to form a one off band called The Incredible Seamless band.
The idea that a continual performance and random, one off collaborations could result in a night of interesting music, without the ego’s.
Around 40 musicians took to the stage. An incredible ambience was created although a lower than expected turnout meant that not as much as hoped for, was raised for Haylands Farm.
Despite that the fact that even though I have been a musician on this Isle for many years I had still not seen or ever performed with such local legends such as The Sharpetones, Pete Hogman, the Nick Cane band and Angelina.
There were loads of musicians of all standards just getting on and playing. It’s what it’s all about. Often musicians are gigging, so do not get many opportunities to catch up with each other. It made for a wonderful night of music and social integration. We also managed to record some of the gig and I know Brian has gained much media interest including BBC Radio Solent and IW Radio.
It is hoped to coincide the next event in time for Ryde Arts Festival next year.
Who knows we could maybe get some kind of world record attempt going for the longest continual performance or the largest number of buskers in one place.
Contact Ryde Theatre for more info or email “sharpe.b(at)tiscali(dot)co(dot)uk” or Development Suite [images courtesy of Ryde Theatre]
