24.46°C The Victoria Inn will host a special day of live music on Saturday, 4th July, celebrating one of the most enthusiastic supporters of Colchester’s grassroots music scene.
Lesley Watson Presents… brings together a line-up of artists chosen by Lesley Watson, whose work through #hmvlivendlocal, the Colchester Music Scene social media pages and countless local gigs has made her a familiar face to musicians and music fans across the city.
The event will also raise money for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance.
Many readers will know Lesley through her work with #hmvlivendlocal at HMV Colchester, where she has helped showcase local artists through a regular programme of in-store performances.
In an interview with Keep Colchester Cool earlier this year, Lesley admitted she knew little about the local music scene when she first started booking artists for the initiative.
“When I first started looking for acts for #hmvlivendlocal, I had no idea about the local scene,” she said. “Then, word of mouth spread, and before I knew it, I was fully booked.”
Since then, she has organised more than 140 performances while helping artists find gigs, radio play, festival opportunities and new audiences. She also attends as many local events as possible and promotes artists through her Colchester Music Scene social media channels.
Asked why she dedicates so much time to supporting local musicians, her answer was simple.
“I just love supporting the local scene.”
Last year, Lesley’s contribution was recognised when she received a Panic Award for Outstanding Contribution to Local Music. She has also been nominated again in this year’s awards.
The Victoria Inn described Lesley as “a true legend of the Colchester music scene” when announcing the event, noting her tireless support for local artists and venues.
Music begins at 2pm and continues throughout the afternoon and evening.
The running order is:
2pm – DJ Ben Howard
2.30pm – Roberto Wonder
3pm – Vincent Vermillion
3.40pm – Rob Lewis
4.20pm – Evy Frearson
5pm – Amy Fry (Swines)
5.40pm – Polly Haynes
6.15pm – DJ Ben Howard
7pm – Fat Pigeon
8pm – DJ Ben Howard
The event is free to attend, with donations being collected for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance.
For many local musicians, Lesley has become one of the first people to offer encouragement, share a latest release, recommend an opportunity or simply turn up to support a performance. On Saturday, 4th July, the local music community will have the chance to return the favour.
Read our previous interview with Lesley Watson and the Victoria Inn’s recent Friends of the Victoria Inn feature to learn more about her contribution to Colchester’s music scene.
