Every short break deserves its own soundtrack. And from March 13th to 23rd, the Isle of Wight will be providing just that, with a new music festival – Acoustic Isle – aimed at anyone wanting to combine a coastal escape with some top quality live music in a wide variety of intimate settings.
The world famous Isle of Wight Festival, of course, has a history jam-packed with legendary performances from some of the biggest acts & DJ’s and is renowned for championing local and new talent. But ‘big brother’s little brother’ – Acoustic Isle, organised by Visit Isle of Wight (VIOW) – is already being talked of as a Festival Fringe aimed at building on the Island’s vibe.
John Giddings, Isle of Wight Festival promoter says:
“We had a great year at the Festival last summer, with some fantastic talent across our three stages, so it’s fantastic to be working alongside VIOW on Acoustic Isle.”
The festival itself will feature around 100 live performances in a wide variety of pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants right across the Island – as a lively local music scene and a vibrant arts community come together under the Acoustic Isle banner to produce an infectious mix of harmonies and rhythmic guitars.
Surprise guests and several top name acts will rub shoulders and share stage space with the Island’s own up-and-coming talented musicians, who have helped to establish the Island’s reputation as being a place where top quality live music can be found on most nights.
Highlights include Joe Gladdis (Festival Fringe), Blacksheep Bar, 13th March, Simon Townshend from “The Who”, Ryde Pavilion, 22nd March, Mr B The Gentleman Rhymer and Jay Foreman, Coburgs 21st March and The White Bicycles (Festival Fringe), Blacksheep Bar, 13th March. See the full line-up at https://www.visitisleofwight.co.uk/events/acoustic-isle
David Thornton, Chief Executive, VIOW explains:
“We are obviously delighted that this new initiative to attract more visitors to the Island outside the main season is being supported by the Isle of Wight Festival. Acoustic Isle is a fantastic opportunity to showcase both talented local artists and mainland musicians. The Isle of Wight Festival has been crucial in growing the Island’s appeal over the years and we want to add to this now with our new music festival.”
The start of Acoustic Isle is fast approaching and countless performances are now being finalised in preparation for the event which will run from March 13th to 23rd.
The Island boasts two of the biggest events on the UK’s summer calendar in The Isle of Wight Festival and Bestival. And Acoustic Isle gives those festival-goers and many others the chance to come back and enjoy the “unplugged” ambience of the Isle of Wight from the relaxed comfort of a bar stool.
Boasting any number of seafront hotels and boutique retreats with ocean views – as well as great walks, cycle routes and fine food – the Island sees the new Acoustic Isle festival as a perfect “excuse” for holiday makers to book a memorable out-of-season escape.
