Winchester's musical climax for Paralympics (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Winchester's musical climax for Paralympics

7:00am Friday 7th September 2012 in Winchester

Winchester musicians are gathering at Oram’s Arbour in the biggest community event of the London 2012 closing celebration, the Bandstand Marathon.

Organised by Winchester City Council, this free event, between 1-5pm on Sunday September 9, will showcase the musical talents of local bands.

The Bandstand Marathon is produced by not-for-profit arts organisation in partnership with Making Music, the UK’s number one organisation for voluntary music.

This national event with a local flavour will bring a four hour musical extravaganza, including the likes of Vicki Musselwhite, Martha’s Man and Faulkasaurus.

Flis Pitman, city council economy and arts support officer, said: “We are encouraging local families from across the district to bring a picnic as well as their own musical instruments so that they can join in from the comfort of their own place in the audience.”

She added: “At the end of the event, there is an opportunity to continue the festivities by moving down the High Street to watch the closing ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games at Winchester City Council’s Live Site at Winchester Cathedral.”

Cllr Patricia Stallard, portfolio holder for communities, culture and sport, added: “Whether you enjoy the meaningful melodies of the solo performers or foot-stomping folk this event provides an opportunity for local people to join in the London 2012 festivities.”