Library Live

Access Creative College presents ‘Live In The Library’
2026-03-12 10:00 - 14:00 UTC | Henry Watson Music Library
The Henry Watson Music Library invites you to experience ‘Live In The Library’, a brand new showcase event in collaboration with the Access Creative College.

As one of the city’s most respected music institutions, Access Creative College will be taking over the music library with a series of special live performances from its current crop of talented musicians.

An unmissable opportunity to see the stars of tomorrow, from the comfort of your library, this FREE daytime event will showcase performances from a wide range of rising talents across the college, including intimate sets from solo singers to frenetic full band arrangements.
In what will be the first edition of 2026, the inaugural Access Creative College Live In The Library will feature guest slots from fusion punk/rock band Wholegrain, three-piece alternative rock/noise rock band Peasant Fool, and rising indie upstarts Beeside, and more!

The event is open to the public, and completely free to attend. See you down the front!

Free – please drop in
Please consider making a donation to support our cultural programme if you can, either online or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Cargo Recording Studios: 1977-1985
2026-03-12 18:00 - 19:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Chris Connelly is coming to Manchester Central Library to discuss his exceptional new book, ‘Cargo Recording Studios: 1977-1985’.
The Cargo Studios book is a history of the music recorded at the Rochdale studio. The studio opened in late 1977 and closed in early 1985. It’s where the seminal ‘Atmosphere’ by Joy Division was recorded, as well as other influential tracks from The Fall, Gang of Four, The Chameleons, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, A Certain Ratio, Echo and the Bunnymen, and many more. It was also where David Gedge of the Wedding Present, Lisa Stansfield and Roland Gift first recorded.
A true labour of love, Chris Connelly spent twelve years researching the 360-page hard-back book which features over a thousand pictures and music memorabilia. With over 900 people interviewed, it also includes essays by artists who recorded there, who expand upon the times, hustling to get gigs, the politics of the day, and venues played.
Launching his book in Manchester City Centre for the first time, Chris Connelly will be appearing at the Henry Watson Music Library on Thursday 12 March @ 6pm.
He will be in conversation with author and musician Mark Hoyle (of the band Dub Sex), who is among the musicians to have recorded at Cargo Studios. Hoyle released his own book ‘Swerve – Dub Sex & Other Stories’ in 2024.
While you’re here…we have a broad selection of books on music which are free to borrow if you have a library card. You can browse our music collection online here or in the Henry Watson Music Library at this event, and find out how to join the library free here or on the day (just bring along some ID with your home address on to complete sign up and pick up your new library card).
Book tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’. All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

St Patrick’s Ceili Band Experience with Mouse's Nest
2026-03-14 14:30 - 16:30 | Henry Watson Music Library
It wouldn’t be St Patrick’s Day without a ceili would it?
So, on the weekend before the world goes green for Ireland’s patron saint, Central Library is hosting a special ceili band and dancing experience in the Henry Watson Music Library.
Come down on Saturday 14 March, where local legends, Mouses Nest, will perform live in the afternoon to get your St Patrick’s Day weekend swinging.
Hailing from the Northwest, the Mouse’s Nest have put on storming performances across the UK for over 15 years, playing weddings, parties, fundraisers, functions, dance workshops and festivals. Performing in the Henry Watson Music Library for the first time, the band will be playing an exciting mixture of Celtic tunes, carefully chosen for audiences to listen and dance to as they like.
Alongside their accomplished guitarist and fiddle player, the band will bring an expert ‘caller’ for those who might like to get in-step with some traditional Celtic ceili dancing on the day. The caller will walk each dance through before the music starts and will keep calling to make sure everyone dancing knows exactly what to do.
A perfect Celtic experience for families to join in the fun this St Patrick’s Day, catch the Mouse’s Nest on Saturday 14 March from 2.30pm.
Suitable for all ages
All donations will go to Manchester Libraries.
While you’re here…we have a broad selection of books on music which are free to borrow if you have a library card. You can browse our music collection online here or in the Henry Watson Music Library at this event, and find out how to join the library free here or on the day (just bring along some ID with your home address on to complete sign up and pick up your new library card).
Tickets for the show are ‘pay-what-you-can’. To book, click on the eventbrite event link here or click the ‘Book Now’ button below.

Daria Chromik: Lunchtime Piano Concert
2026-03-26 13:00 - 14:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Acclaimed Polish pianist, Daria Chromik, will be appearing at the Henry Watson Music Library for a special lunchtime performance.

Presenting ‘Between Note and Emotion – Piano Recital’, the concert will offer a unique opportunity for audiences to hear the artist perform in this intimate setting for the first time.
Daria Chomik is a pianist with over 29 years of experience. Her performances take audiences on a journey through musical eras — from Chopin’s classics, through contemporary piano works, to film music including themes from Game of Thrones and “Experience” by Ludovico Einaudi*.
Daria enjoys exploring connections between styles, showing that every kind of music can be beautiful.

Short introductions during the concert provide context, highlight stylistic features, and guide listeners through an engaging and emotional musical experience.
Appearing at the Henry Watson Music Library of Central Library on 26th March, expect a breathtaking audience with this most sublime of pianists.

Book tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’.
All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

嘢嘢YardYard: DJ workshop & live show
2026-04-16 17:00 - 19:45 | Henry Watson Music Library
YardYard will be launching their event series “Pendulum世界术” with a debut programme at Henry Watson Music Library of Central Library.

Kicking off the series will be a special interactive DJ workshop, experimental live set, and high energy DJ set.
In their first event outside of London in the UK, the rising creative arts collective will be connecting with the Manchester music scene for the first time.
Featuring a free drop-in DJ deck session for all adventurous and curious ears, you are invited to tune into the generous in-house heritage 808 DJ deck, with two open-ear Chinese DJs. A multilingual workshop, this innovative session will offer support for rising DJs of all abilities in both English and Chinese.
After the workshop, three talents will be sharing a snapshot of their current sonic world and artistic direction with two live acts. These will include an experimental live set from Yewen Jin and YUNA阿尘, plus an audio-visual DJ set from tongktongktong.
The “Pendulum世界术” series is dedicated to events that allow creatives from all around the world to share their gestalt-free singularisation and the trace in their pursuit.
SET TIMES
17:00-18:00 – DJ Workshop Drop In
18:10-18:50 – Yewen Jin and YUNA阿尘
19:00-19:40 – tongktongktong.
Book tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’.
All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

The Fleecers: Live!
2026-04-25 15:00 - 16:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
One of the hottest emerging talents in the North West, The Fleecers, will be performing live in the Henry Watson Music Library this Spring.

A group of prodigiously talented music students aged 14-17, The Fleecers formed in Cheadle Hulme in 2025. In their short time together, the rising indie-rock four-piece have since been making ripples around the region with a series of shows in clubs, pubs, and house parties.

Already getting a formidable reputation for their passionate live shows, the band’s energising covers of classics by the likes of Oasis, Radiohead, The Verve, Stereophonics, and others have gone down a storm with audiences.

Recently the band released their debut single “Home”, an irresistible indie-rock belter recommended for fans of The K’s to The Royston Club, The Courteeners to Arctic Monkeys. With their fan base surging, the track has already hit over 50,000 streams and counting. Listen to “Home” here: “Home” – The Fleecers

They may be The Fleecers by name, but this pay-what-you-can show at Central Library promises to be worth every penny… Catch them here on Saturday 25th April while you can.

Book tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’.
All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

Led Zeppelin - Whole Lotta Love: Richard Houghton in conversation
2026-04-30 18:00 - 19:00
‘Led Zeppelin – Whole Lotta Love’ is a people’s history of the biggest rock band in the world. And on Thursday 30 April, its author Richard Houghton will be talking all about it, in the Henry Watson Music Library.
This extraordinary book tells Zeppelin’s story in the words of over 750 fans, as recounted by concert goers, roadies, promoters and others who encountered the band across their 12-year career.
Led Zeppelin were formed in 1968 by Yardbirds guitarist Jimmy Page, who recruited singer Robert Plant, drummer John ‘Bonzo’ Bonham and John Paul Jones. From there, Led Zeppelin toured North America relentlessly in the early part of the seventies, regularly smashing concert attendance and box office records, playing the legendary songs ‘Whole Lotta Love’, ‘Stairway To Heaven’ and ‘Rock & Roll’ at shows that fans now recall as the best they ever saw.
Packed with memories going back to Robert Plant’s earliest performances, this book charts Zep’s concert career in all its glory and infamy – from the earliest Zeppelin shows, to the five nights at London’s Earls Court in 1975, Knebworth Festival in 1979, and 2007’s epic O2 reunion show.
Richard Houghton is the author of over 20 books about music, specialising in people’s histories that tell the story of an act in the words of fans. He has compiled authorised ‘fanthologies’ on Jethro Tull, Simple Minds, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, The Stranglers, Shaun Ryder (Happy Mondays), Fairport Convention, The Wedding Present and The Ukrainians. He lives in Manchester, UK.
Providing a fresh take on the enduring band that has sold over 300 million albums worldwide, hear Richard Houghton in conversation about ‘Led Zeppelin – Whole Lotta Love’

Book tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’. All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

Full Volume Podcast Episode15: Shaun Wilson
2026-05-07 08:00 - 2026-05-31 17:00 | Online
Presenters Alan Lynch and his co-host Gary Parkinson – bring you all the latest and greatest from across Manchester Libraries.
This May, Alan sits down with rising Cumbrian author Shaun Wilson, who tells all on his acclaimed debut novel ‘Malc’s Boy’. Shaun will be coming to Central Library later this month in person for a special author Q&A, hosted by Tony Walsh
Plus, coin collectors will love our special feature with Steve Ingham who tells us all about the Numismatics Society who meet once a month at Central Library. Alan once thought he’d found a rare Rupert the Bear 50 pence, until the penny dropped… hear more about it in this episode.
Elsewhere, Elle takes us to reviewers corner once again as she sinks her teeth into the new novel by poet Neil Rollinson called “The Dead Don’t Bleed”. Hear her two cents on it here.
Plus, Alan heads to Chorlton and Didsbury Libraries to get the scoop on their latest happenings, plus news of their involvement in the Chorlton Arts Festival and Didsbury Arts Festival respectfully.
And there’s a roundup of what’s going on around the local Manchester Libraries throughout the month, a choice archive clip from the Piccadilly Radio archive of when the Pope came to Heaton Mark, and all the usual fun and games.
Turn it up, and tune in to Episode 15 now
Watch out for a new episode next month….

Concert: Sedbergh Prep School Choir
2026-05-09 10:00 - 11:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Sedbergh Prep School will bring their tour to Manchester Central Library Saturday 9th May.
Mixing cultural activities with performances in a few well-known establishments around the city, the Casterton choir will be calling-in at the Henry Watson Music Library.
Based in the North-west, they have performed recent concerts at esteemed venues such as Bolton Priory, St Mary’s Church in Kirkby Lonsdale, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, and St Helen and St Martin’s York.
Composed of children aged 10-13 years old, the choir will be promising a mixture of songs to suit all tastes. The choir will be accompanied by the Head of Music at Sedbergh Prep School, Sian Norman.
Set to be a special, informal, early morning performance – all are welcome to attend this choral session from 10AM.
Free – just drop in.
Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library.

2hr DJ Workshop at Central Library
2026-05-14 17:00 - 19:00
Join us for a hands-on DJ and music production workshop at Central Library.
Hosted by tutor Niah Jemijog, this 2 hour session is designed to be an accessible, creative, and engaging tutorial for all experience levels.
This small group session will cover the fundamentals of beat making, mixing, and live looping/DJ performance, using industry-standard tools like Ableton Live, MIDI Controllers and live instruments.
The workshop will take a multi-genre approach, encouraging participants to explore and create across styles such as hip hop, electronic, house, experimental, and more.
The focus will be on building confidence, developing practical skills, and giving people the tools to start honing their musical intuition and creating their own music straight away.
With a strong emphasis on inclusion, creativity, and real-world application, this group session in the Henry Watson Music Library on the first floor will be suitable for all ages and abilities.
Tickets are limited, so be quick!
Book tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’.
All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

POSTPONED: 'THE BEAUTIFUL DEATH OF OZZY OSBOURNE' with KEITH KAHN-HARRIS
2026-06-01 18:00 - 19:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
** PLEASE NOTE: DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED – NEW DATE TBC
ALL TICKETS REMAIN VALID FOR THE NEW DATE OR REFUNDS ARE AVAILABLE AND OUR STAFF WILL BE IN TOUCH**
Acclaimed author Keith Kahn-Harris will be coming to the Henry Watson Music Library to discuss his new book ‘The Beautiful Death of Ozzy Osbourne’.
What is a ‘good death’? How about this: After years of terrible health, you gather friends and admirers for one last, glorious party. A couple of weeks later, you slip away, surrounded by your loving family. Then, the world comes to mourn. That is how Birmingham’s favourite son, Ozzy Osbourne, died.
By his death in June 2025 – at an age few believed he’d reach – Ozzy was much-loved, far beyond the metal world. Once a feared, demonic figure to some (and a joke to others), his Back to the Beginning farewell concert at Villa Park raised millions for charity.
In concise, arresting chapters moving from Death to Life via Art, Politics, Sex, Bodies, Voice, Family, Myth and more, Kahn-Harris explores how Ozzy – of all people! – attracted such generosity of spirit. The answer, he finds, is deeply embedded within the story and culture of metal – and has lessons for us all.
Keith Kahn-Harris has been writing about metal since the mid-1990s and he is one of the founders of Metal Studies as a discipline. Alongside his scholarly work, he has written metal journalism for many years, most recently for The Quietus, alongside books on language, and Jewishness.
Join Keith in person as he talks through the book at our Henry Watson Music Library on Monday 1st June at 6pm.
Tickets are just ‘pay-what-you-can’.
All donations go to Manchester Libraries.

Computer Music Workshop from YardYard collective
2026-06-04 17:00 - 19:45 | Henry Watson Music Library
YardYard present the second instalment of their Pendulum世界术 series in Henry Watson Music Library on Thursday 4 June.
Explore machine learning music tools in a special 2 hour session that will include a computer music workshop and interactive jam, followed by a live performance from rising talent: Nefo.
In the workshop, together we will look into acoustic musical instrument through Data Knot, a set of real-time audio processing machine learning tools. Data Knot is a set of machine learning tools that are optimized for low latency and real-time performance.
Providing a forum to jam for musicians of all abilities, the session will also utilise heritage instruments in the library’s collection including a lute, sitar and more.
This session is Mandarin + English friendly.
After the workshop, there will be a live set from emerging electonic talent: Nefo.
Nefo AKA Nefo Zhang (b. 2000) works in Audiovisual and experimental art. Inspired by natural sciences and imagination, unravel the primary element with curiosity. In transitioning from nature to abstraction, tune into the subtle perception of everything to liberate insight and resonate within the heart. Nefo presented the ‘Immanence’ live electronic music project in symbiotic sound synthesis within the oscillation field. In winter 2018, Nefo started an amateur hobby radio station, transmitting light signals and broadcasting inaudible sounds of nature in the wilderness.
The “Pendulum世界术” series is dedicated to events that allow creatives from all around the world to share their gestalt-free singularisation and the trace in their pursuit.
SET TIMES
17:00-19:00 – Computer Music Workshop/Jam (Drop In)
19:10-19:45 – Nefo (live)
Book tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’.
All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

Choirs Manchester - Live Performance
2026-06-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Come along to the Henry Watson Music Library for some exceptional choral music from: Choirs Manchester.
Choirs Manchester are a collective of choirs running in Chorlton and Withington. They are all about singing to feel good and love nothing more than performing their original arrangements of current and classic tunes. They have performed yearly at the renowned Manchester 10k, at Refuge, Manchester and are consistently part of local community events in South Manchester such as Chorlton Arts Festival and for the charity Emmeline’s Pantry.
Choirs Manchester are led by the talented Sarah Adams, who among her many other accolades has conducted the Manchester’s Survivors’ Choir and performed alongside Take That. As a singer/songwriter of her own accord, she has also performed in reputable venues across the city such as Band on the Wall, Manchester Academy, Bury Met, Deaf Institute and been part of the ‘Live at Lunchtime’ series at Bridgewater Hall.
Speaking about Choirs Manchester and their concerts, Sarah says:
“I pride myself on creating a relaxed, no pressure environment that is all about singing to feel good and my ability to encourage a sense of community during a session. It is an empowering activity, not just for an individual but also for connecting people as a group.”
This June, take a seat in the historic music library, sit-back, watch, listen, and immerse yourself in their uplifting vibe.
Free – just drop in.
Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

POSTPONED: Access Creative College presents ‘Live In The Library’
2026-06-15 10:00 - 12:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
** POSTPONED TO WEDNESDAY 17 JUNE **
This event has been postponed to 17 June – 10AM – 2PM. Thank you for your understanding.
*****
The Henry Watson Music Library invites you to experience ‘Live In The Library’, a brand new showcase event in collaboration with the Access Creative College.

As one of the city’s most respected music institutions, Access Creative College will be taking over the music library with a series of special live performances from its current crop of talented musicians.

An unmissable opportunity to see the stars of tomorrow, from the comfort of your library, this FREE daytime event will showcase performances from a wide range of rising talents across the college, including intimate sets from solo singers to frenetic full band arrangements.
Following the success of their inaugural launch event in the Spring, the 2026 cohort will be rounding the Summer term off with a bang. Full line-up TBC.

The event is open to the public, and completely free to attend. See you down the front!

Free – please drop in
Please consider making a donation to support our cultural programme if you can, either online or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Launch gig: AnaKi
2026-06-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Henry Watson Music Library
On Monday 15 June, rising North-west star AnaKi will launch her latest single with an intimate live show and listening party at the Henry Watson Music Library.
AnaKi isa Manchester based singer-songwriter, who blends her faith with honest lyrics to bring people to a posture of introspection.
The new single she will be premiering, “Lord Don’t”, is a prayer that requests for grounding as the world keeps spinning, trying to take her in many directions.
At this special launch event, attendees can expect live performances of AnaKi’s acclaimed previous singles, a few covers, and perhaps even a preview of a brand new song yet to be debuted.
Expect an intimate, memorable and soulful night to remember.
This event is FREE. Reserve a ticket via Eventbrite here to ensure a place, or please pop-by on the evening.
Please support our cultural programme by donating at our cash or contactless donation boxes, or online.

Listen to more by Anaki here:

Live Music: Access Creative College presents ‘Live In The Library’
2026-06-17 10:00 - 14:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
The Henry Watson Music Library invites you to experience ‘Live In The Library’, a brand new showcase event in collaboration with the Access Creative College.

As one of the city’s most respected music institutions, Access Creative College will be taking over the music library with a series of special live performances from its current crop of talented musicians.

An unmissable opportunity to see the stars of tomorrow, from the comfort of your library, this FREE daytime event will showcase performances from a wide range of rising talents across the college, including intimate sets from solo singers to frenetic full band arrangements.
Following the success of their inaugural launch event in the Spring, the 2026 cohort will be rounding the Summer term off with a bang. Full line-up for the 17th June edition will include performances by:

Connie-Mae (Singer)
Zahra Majid (Singer)
Miriki (Band)
Emily-Mae (Singer-songwriter)
Rosie (Singer-songwriter)
Bobby B (Singer-songwriter)

The event is open to the public, and completely free to attend. See you down the front!

Free – please drop in.
Please consider making a donation to support our cultural programme if you can, either online or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Woodshed Collective - Live at the Library!
2026-06-18 13:00 - 14:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Jazz quartet to perform a special lunchtime set at the Henry Watson Music Library this June.

Woodshed Collective is unified by a shared passion for performing and composing jazz in its many forms.
The band takes its inspiration from traditional artists such as Charlie Parker, Miles Davis and Cannonball Adderley, aiming to develop their own sound based on the trademark sounds of these artists.
The collective consists of Olli Bonada on the piano, saxophonist David Sotunde, experienced bassist Darren Randle and drummer Luke Komlosy.
The quartet is looking forward to bringing their sound to Central Library’s Henry Watson Music Library for a special lunchtime show, with their one-hour setlist includes upcoming original single ‘Spiralling’ as well as classic standards such as ‘Take the “A” Train’ and ‘My Favorite Things’.
Purchase ‘pay-what-you-can’ tickets on Eventbrite here or click on ‘Book Now’ below.
All donations go to Manchester Libraries

Make Music Day Gig: Greater Manchester Voices choir
2026-06-20 14:00 - 15:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
In celebration of Make Music Day 2026, the Greater Manchester Voices choir will be performing a very special set in the Henry Watson Music Library.
The Greater Manchester Voices is a lively community choir based in South Manchester, built on three simple foundations: Singing, Smiling and Socialising.
Founded by Musical Director Ollie Mills in 2011, the choir are going strong in their 15th year. Meeting every Thursday at St Nicholas Church, Kingsway they have a reputation for belting out anything from pop and show tunes, to jazz and classical, and even a little world music.
With an “everyone welcome” attitude, the encouraging group is made up of four vocal sections who enthusiastically rehearse all year round. The result is a choir with luscious harmonies and ambitious vocal arrangements.
Taking place on Saturday 20th June, this FREE afternoon concert at Central Library, is titled “Summer Songs In The City”. The show will mark their first public outing in Manchester city centre and the group are excited to share their joy of singing with a new audience.
Visitors can expect Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, Coldplay, Lloyd-Webber, traditional African songs and even a sea shanty….
Free – just drop in!
Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Ukulele Lesson - Small Group!
2026-07-07 18:00 - 19:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Join us this July for something a little different at the Henry Watson Music Library — a relaxed, beginner-friendly ukulele workshop.
Led by tutor Jim Wallace, this Ukulele Lesson is all about confidence, connection, and enjoying music together in a welcoming setting.
For 25 years, Jim has been bringing his passionate music teaching experiences to venues across Manchester – and now he will be coming to Central Library for a evening of strumming and good company for folks of all abilities.
Whether you’ve never picked up an instrument before or you’re tempted to try something new, this workshop is open to complete beginners and rusty returners alike. No music reading required — and instruments are provided.
Perfectly timed for an after-work drop-in, expect a friendly, low-pressure session where we’ll learn a few simple chords, play familiar songs together, and enjoy making music in a supportive small group.
Come along, give it a try, and discover just how enjoyable making music can be.
Small group – limited places available. Tuesday 7 July, 6pm-7pm.
Instruments provided – just bring yourself!
It’s never too late to play…
Tickets are just ‘pay-what-you-can’. Book HERE.
All donations go to Manchester Libraries.

New Horizons Choir sing Punk Classics
2026-07-08 17:15 - 18:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Part of our 50th Anniversary celebrations marking the anniversary of the Sex Pistols’ legendary Lesser Free Trade Hall, the New Horizons Choirs will be performing a special punk set.

New Horizons is a fun, welcoming, inclusive choir who meet for a sing every week in the Manchester Central Library. With a varied repertoire of songs, from 80s pop ballads through classics and showtunes to upbeat contemporary bangers, they have been the house choir at the library for many years. After a stunning “Oasis Week” set last year, the choir are now preparing for a special punk set like no other.
As choir leader Tom Guest says of the set:
“Punk is not the obvious choice of genre for a choir, but it has been great putting these Punk classics together in rehearsal. These songs by Blondie, The Clash, The Jam and Buzzcocks are all so infectious – so make sure you sing along with us and raise the roof again, 50 years on!”
Primarily a singing group for well-being, with the focus on enjoying the mental health benefits singing together can bring, the choir have also given performances at established local venues such as Manchester Cathedral, Gorton Monastery, and of course Manchester Central Library.
Free – just drop in.
Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

SOLD OUT: Never Mind The Books Here’s PUNK DAY!
2026-07-11 11:30 - 16:30 | Henry Watson Music Library
This July, the Henry Watson Music Library will be celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Sex Pistols’ iconic 1976 gig at the Lesser Free Trade Hall.
A definitive milestone in the city’s musical history, Sex Pistols’ first appearance in Manchester has since become the stuff of rock legend. Named “the most important gig of all time” by the NME, it was a watershed moment that ushered in a new generation of artists and a new way of thinking, and redefined music in the North, and beyond, forever.

With the former Lesser Free Trade Hall just across the street, the Henry Watson Music Library at Central Library will be commemorating that legendary date with a day that salutes everything PUNK.

Promising a packed afternoon of themed talks and Q&As, acclaimed author DAVID NOLAN will be presenting his book “I Swear I Was There – Sex Pistols, Manchester and the Gig that Changed the World”. Despite thousands claiming they were in attendance, only a handful of people were actually there – but those that were went on to form bands including The Smiths, Buzzcocks, Joy Division, New Order and The Fall. In a myth-busting masterclass of investigative journalism, Nolan has sorted the hardcore facts from the rock’n’roll fiction and will be appearing at the Library in-person to tell us exactly who really was at the Lesser Free Trade Hall gig, and who has just been blagging…

Elsewhere, Manchester music scene legend and talking head JOHN ROBB, will be talking about his brand new book “Punk Rock Ruined My Life and Other Stories”. As the frontman of both Membranes and Goldblade, and founder of tastemaker site Louder Than War, John is a man who knows punk inside-out. Chatting through his new memoir, he will be delving into his deep friendships with figures like Poly Styrene to Chris Packham, growing up in Blackpool, interviewing icons like Mark E. Smith to Patti Smith, plus opening-up on a host of other riotous stories.

Plus, proving it wasn’t just the Pistols tearing up the rule book, Louder Than War journalist IAIN KEY will be presenting his new “All The Young Punks: A People’s History of The Clash”. From their own punk explosion of 1976 to become an internationally acclaimed arena act, Iain will be discussing their history with lifelong Clash fan PAUL HANLEY (ex-Fall).

And in true punk spirit, one of Manchester’s most fiery new acts DEAD STILETTOS will be performing live to show us that the legacy of what the Sex Pistols started in the Lesser Free Trade Hall is alive and well. DIY to the core, the five-piece have been described as “Stoogified Mancunian Punk” and will deliver a shot of live rock’n’roll mayhem to close proceedings with a bang.
SET TIMES
12:00 12:45 In Conversation: ‘All the Young Punks: A People’s History of the Clash’ –
Q&A w/ Iain Key in conversation with Paul Hanley (ex-Fall)
13:00 13:45 Talk: ‘I Swear I Was There’: David Nolan
David presents a talk on the legendary 1976 Sex Pistols Gig at the Lesser Free Trade Hall.
14:00 15:00 In Conversation: “Punk Rock Ruined My Life”
Q&A w/ John Robb in conversation with Iain Key
15:45 16:30 Music: Dead Stilettos – LIVE!
*****

Book tickets here or click on ‘Book Now’ below and ‘pay-what-you can’. All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

Intergenerational Music Making: Access All Ages Creative Community Hub
2026-07-13 10:00 - 11:30, 2026-08-10 10:00 - 11:30 | Henry Watson Music Library
Intergenerational Music Making invites you to join our age inclusive creative sessions, designed to bring communities together. Every session will include opportunities to get creative through music, art, poetry, movement, storytelling, and meaningful conversations that bring people together. Held in the beautiful Henry Watson Music Library within Manchester Central Library, the sessions are relaxed, flexible, accessible and welcoming to everyone.
Free – just drop in.
Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Stereo Listening Booth - LIVE!
2026-07-25 08:00 - 17:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
A special matinee show from the Manchester electronic act LIVE from the Henry Watson Music Library.

Ellesmere Port resident Patrick Oakford and Manchester’s Travis Eagle write and perform original electronic / dance / trance / club soundscapes under the name Stereo Listening Booth.
Reviewing the debut album ‘Disko Noir’, Louder than War magazine described the experience as ‘somewhere between a less sleazy Soft Cell and more interesting New Order’.
The band’s mission statement is a simple one: ‘nothing ruled out, nothing ruled in’.
Stereo Listening Booth will be performing live at selective venues throughout the year, with an exclusive performance right here in the Henry Watson Music Library at Central Library.
Special guests TBC – watch this space.
Book tickets and make a donation on Eventbrite here or ‘Book Now’ below
All donations go to the Manchester Libraries Trust (registered charity number: 1150161).

Watch / listen to “99 Otago St” here:

Family Music Making with Sarah Atter
2026-08-25 10:00 - 10:45 | Henry Watson Music Library
Join Sarah for lots of fun, music-making, action songs, playing instruments & more!
Come along for a fun and interactive musical adventure, with each session specially tailored to different ages.
Session 1 – Babies & Younger EYFS
10:00–10:45am
Suitable for babies and young children up to age 5
This session is particularly tailored towards babies and younger children in the EYFS. Join us for singing, movement, music making, instruments and playful activities as we take a rocket ship into space and discover different planets.
Session 2 – EYFS & Lower KS1
11:15am–12:00pm
Suitable for ages 18 months–5 years
Aimed at EYFS and KS1 children and their parents/carers, this session will get you all singing, moving, making music and creating as we take a rocket ship to Zoom into space and discover different planets!
Session 3 – Upper KS1 & KS2
1:00–1:45pm
Suitable for ages 6–10
Can we create our own musical planets? What do they look like? What do they sound like? And how might we get there?
This session for KS1 and KS2 pupils will get children singing, making music and composing their very own world premieres!
Booking
All sessions are free, but booking is required.
Please select the ticket for the session that is most appropriate for your child’s age. Parents and carers are welcome to join in and will need to stay with their children during the session.

Mahjong Music Club (MMMC)
2026-09-01 17:00 - 19:00
Manchester Mahjong Music Club (MMMC) is a new community gathering where mahjong and music bring people together.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or have been playing for years, everyone is welcome, especially the aunties!
Each session pairs casual mahjong with a curated listening experience, introducing players to everything from classical music and timeless favourites to local artists and hidden gems.
Come to learn, play, listen, and meet new people across generations.
First gathering – 1 September (the first day of ESEA Heritage Month)

Free – just drop in.
Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Gig: The Last Caboose - LIVE!
2026-09-03 18:00 - 19:30 | Henry Watson Music Library
Alternative folk risers THE LAST CABOOSE will be performing live at the Henry Watson Music Library this September.
Formed in Manchester in 2024 The Last Caboose play music with an acoustic feel, bringing together elements of Folk, Country, Americana and Classic Pop.
A line up which includes mandolin; guitar; double bass and piano, combines with vocal harmonies to deliver original songs crammed with hooks and melodies telling tales of the everyday and the unusual; of travel and escape.
The first studio recordings by The Last Caboose are currently available as The Shadow Of The Wind EP on Half Edge Records on Bandcamp. Listen to “When The Wind Blows” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmOfGzNnn50
Support on the night will come from Manchester’s own Cathie Pixie. Drawing comparisons to Suzanne Vega, KT Tunstall, and Michelle Shocked she has produced 4 albums and many singles in her career to date. Expect lyrical songs, with plenty of hooks designed to move you in body and soul.
Set Times
6.00: Doors
6.15: Cathie Pixey
6.45: The Last Caboose
7.30: Finish
Tickets are ‘pay what you like’ – book them via Eventbrite here or click ‘Book Now’ below
All donations go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.

Library Lunchtime Choir
2026-09-08 12:30 - 13:15 | Henry Watson Music Library
Fancy a sing on your lunch break? Or just a feel-good sing to boost your day? Then come along to our regular Library Lunchtime Choir session!
There is no pressure to be a virtuoso, we’re just singing to feel better. The session will be 45 minutes of warm-ups and an arrangement of a well-known tune. You don’t need to be able to read music, we will learn everything by ear using the lyrics.
Sessions are run by Sarah Adams (Choirs Manchester) and the ethos is all about setting a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy singing together as a group.
Come along with a friend or on your own, it’ll be a friendly, laid back session!
Free – just drop in.
Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Ukulele Workshop - Small group session!
2026-09-08 18:00 - 19:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Led by tutor Jim Wallace, this Ukulele Lesson is all about confidence, connection, and enjoying music together in a welcoming setting.
For 25 years, Jim has been bringing his passionate music teaching experiences to venues across Manchester – and now he will be coming to Central Library for a evening of strumming and good company for folks of all abilities.
Whether you’ve never picked up an instrument before or you’re tempted to try something new, this workshop is open to complete beginners and rusty returners alike. No music reading required — and instruments are provided.
Perfectly timed for an after-work drop-in, expect a friendly, low-pressure session where we’ll learn a few simple chords, play familiar songs together, and enjoy making music in a supportive small group.
Come along, give it a try, and discover just how enjoyable making music can be.
Small group – limited places available. Tuesday 8 September, 6pm-7pm.
Instruments provided – just bring yourself!
It’s never too late to play…
Pay what you like – book your place via Eventbrite here or click ‘Book Now’ below

Q&A: Karen McBride: Just A Girl From North Manchester
2026-09-09 18:00 - 19:30 | Performance Space
Join Karen McBride for a special evening where she will present ‘Just a Girl from North Manchester: A Photographic Exhibition‘; talking about the stories behind the photographs, the making of the exhibition, and the journey that led to ‘Just a Girl from North Manchester’.
For over 30 years, Karen has documented the people, places and music that have shaped Manchester. Her new exhibition brings together a personal collection of black-and-white photographs, stories and memories from behind the camera.
The work follows on from her book, ‘Just a Girl from North Manchester’, and explores a lifetime spent documenting musicians, communities and everyday moments that might otherwise have been forgotten.
Displayed throughout the exhibition are nine original vintage library display cabinets that were especially designed for Manchester Central Library when the building first opened. They provide the perfect setting for a journey through Manchester’s musical and cultural history. One cabinet, however, will house something very special that celebrates Karen’s lifelong love of traditional black-and-white photography, craftsmanship and making things by hand—qualities that have always been part of Manchester’s industrious spirit.
Whether you’re interested in photography, Manchester’s music scene, local history or simply enjoy discovering something different, Karen McBride invites you to come along to an evening that will take you into her storied life and behind ‘Just a Girl from North Manchester: A Photographic Exhibition‘.
Karen will be in-conversation with Nicola Howard.
There will also be live music from: Shimeon.
Live @ Central Library Performance Space. 6pm-7.30pm.
Tickets – just pay-what-you-like. Book them via Eventbrite here or click ‘Book Now’ below
All donations to Manchester Libraries to enable future activities.
