A new museum dedicated to Island music has opened its doors to visitors in Newport.
The Wight Music Experience brings together thousands of exhibits that showcase the Isle of Wight’s musical history, from festivals of the past to chart-topping favourites of today such as Wet Leg and Coach Party.
Historic opening
The official opening took place at the weekend, led by Ray Foulk, co-promoter of the original 1968, 1969 and 1970 festivals.
Those legendary events attracted hundreds of thousands of fans to the Island for performances from Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen and others.
Festivals remembered
More recent events such as Postfest, Bestival and Rhythmtree are also celebrated within the museum. Visitors can explore vintage posters, t-shirts, beer mugs, vinyl records, magazines and unusual items including a festival sleeping bag from 1970, council documents and Victorian sheet music.
Labour MP for Isle of Wight West, Richard Quigley, joined many local musicians as some of the first to tour the permanent display, which is housed on the upper floor of Triple A Records in St James Street, opposite the Man in the Moon pub.
Ray Foulk and live performances
As part of the launch, Ray Foulk screened footage from the 1970 festival and spoke about the struggle he and his brothers, Ron and Bill, faced in gaining permission to stage the event. He also signed copies of the new edition of his book Last Great Event.
Live music entertained guests throughout the day, with acoustic festival classics performed by Jess Leigh Ong and Alex Watson.
Preserving Island music history
Jonathan Bacon, co-founder and proprietor of Wight Music Experience, said,
“The proper archiving and display of the wealth of Island music history is long overdue. This is the beginning of our project which in celebrating the rich musical history of the Island will also hopefully revive memories and inspire future generations of Island musicians.
“We are always looking for new exhibits and anyone with items of interest is very welcome to get in touch. We will soon be opening an additional exhibition space in Ryde Arcade.”
Visiting information
The museum is open Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm.
Regular live events, talks and signings will take place as part of the programme.
More details can be found on the website.
