Paper Piano Presents: DJ Goalpost
2023-10-13 08:00 - 17:00 UTC | Henry Watson Music Library
Anyone who has visited the Paper Piano exhibition may have wondered who or what DJ Goalpost is. To answer that, and to mark the end of the exhibition, Paper Piano will be giving away a limited edition DJ Goalpost book. The book is part exploration of what an alter-ego can be, part self-help guide and part treasure chest of memories, past and future. The book is easily identified as it has a photo of DJ Goalpost on the front and features all the Paper Piano trademarks including a CD-R and tea cards. Numbers are extremely limited and will be available from 4pm.

Free – please drop in

3 Chord Ukulele Club
2023-11-04 13:00 - 14:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Join us for an informal ukulele lesson and singalong. Ukulele’s available. Beginners welcome!
Free – please book by emailing catherine.rooney@manchester.gov.uk

Let's Read Music 2 - Music Theory
2023-11-16 15:00 - 2023-12-20 16:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Would you like to understand the structure and meaning behind a musical composition and boost your music performance? Do yo want to boost your music performance? Get to know music theory – it tells you how music works. Just bring a pencil and paper.
Each session starts at 3pm:

Modes – 16 Nov
Inversions and voice leading – 30 Nov
Functional Harmony – 7 Dec
Non Diatonic Music – 14 Dec
Polyrhythms and Syncopation – 20 Dec

Free – drop-in

Christmas with Elvis!
2023-12-08 20:00 - 22:00 | Performance Space
Join us for a Rock ‘n’ Rolling Christmas Celebration with Manc Elvis and his Magical Band.
Manchester’s premier Elvis tribute act present an evening packed with greatest hits and Christmas classics to get you up and dancing all night! Including…
That’s Alright Mama, Merry Christmas Baby, Jailhouse Rock, Santa Bring My Baby (Back to Me), Viva Las Vegas, Blue Christmas, Burning Love, Devil in Disguise, All Shook Up, Wonder of You, Suspicious Minds and loads more!
Bar open all evening.
Book your tickets now to save £’s!
Early bird tickets are £6 + Eventbrite booking fee
Group tickets discount (4 tickets for the price of 3) are £18 + Eventbrite booking fee
Tickets on the night are £9 each.

Reimagined City Workshops
2023-12-16 13:00 - 16:45 | Henry Watson Music Library
Join us for percussion and singing workshops. Part of a weekend of International Migrant Day activities, showcasing migrant culture through art and music. Suitable for all ages.
Free – drop in

Probably the Hardest Music Quiz in the World!
2024-02-01 18:00 - 19:30 | Chief Librarian’s Office
40 horribly hard music questions.
Get them all right and win the Super-Duper Mega Mystery Prize!
Play on your own or as part of a team (max 4 members per team).
No need to book, everyone welcome.
FREE ENTRY.
For more info please message your quiz host: alan.lynch@manchester.gov.uk

LYR open the Festival of Libraries 2024
2024-06-12 08:00 - 17:00 | Performance Space
A live music performance from Poet Laureate Simon Armitage’s band LYR and local Manchester artist Jospehine Oniyama, featuring a very special new single dedicated to libraries.
Booking required. Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in the venue, or online

Soundtrack to Your Life
2024-08-16 14:00 - 15:00 | Chief Librarian’s Office
What would be your track? What’s the story behind the tune? What would be your album and what would the sleeve notes say? Come along and let us hear your special track and tell us the story of what it means to you.
Free – just drop in

Summer Silent Disco!
2024-08-16 19:30 - 23:30 | Performance Space
PLEASE NOTE – THIS EVENT HAS BEEN DELAYED TO A FUTURE DATE (TO BE ANNOUNCED)
Forget the weather! We’ll have no summertime sadness here. You’ll be walking on sunshine at our special Summer Silent Disco!
You’ve waited far too long for the return of the famous Retro Silent Disco at Central Library! It’s time to let the good vibrations take over, celebrate summertime and spend some boogie nights at the Club Tropicana (where unfortunately, the drinks aren’t free!).
But we CAN promise you 4 hours of the best summer party music from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s from Mr Retro Silent Disco himself, DJ John!
Check out our bargain group bundle and concessionary offers!
Concessions (Student, unwaged. Over 60) £7
General Admission £10
Group Ticket (4 for the price of 3) £30

The Hardest Music Quiz in the World!
2024-12-18 16:30 - 19:00 | Chief Librarian’s Office
The Vinyl Listening Group present The Hardest Music Quiz in the World! Prizes to be won. And maybe even mince pies! All welcome.
Free – just drop in.

Poppycock
2025-01-22 08:00 - 17:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Poppycock, featuring Una Baines, perform their album ‘Magic Mothers’ (one of Louder Than War’s Top 100 albums of 2024), alongside artwork by Pascal le Gras and Suzanne Smith.
Band on stage at 6pm.
Free – please drop in

Women's Community Festival 2025
2025-03-08 11:00 - 14:00 | Performance Space
International Women’s Day (IWD) is returning to Manchester as a celebration of women’s empowerment, equality and contributions to the city at Manchester Central Library on Saturday 8 March.
Led and inspired by an already significant history of pioneering women, IWD 2025 is a chance for women across all generations and dedicated allies to come together in advancing women’s rights in Manchester and around the world.
The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Accelerate Action’, which calls on supporters of gender equality to act against systemic barriers women from all backgrounds face in their personal and professional environments.
In recent years, Manchester City Council has marked IWD with a dedicated ‘Walk for Women’ event. This year, however, the Council has joined forces with a diverse range of women-led community organisations to co-design a different approach.
Funding was made available for community organisations to host IWD events across the city through the annual IWD grants programme. A celebratory community-led programme of workshops, performances and discussions has also been planned for the day itself at Manchester Central Library based around the acronym HER: Heal Encourage, Revive.
The events for IWD 2025 are:
Heal – Performance Space
·  Flourish Together; Mindfulness Activity for relaxation and meditation, 11am-1pm
·  Equal Education Chances; letter writing and positive affirmations session, 11:20am-12:15pm
Encouraged – Performance Space 2 and 3
·    Community Thriving Together; sharing personal stories and overcoming challenges, 11am-11:50am
·   Trailblazers; Creating bookmarks and stitching
·   Young Identity with Shirley May; poetry performance by Young Identity members, 11:55am-12:15pm
·   Flourish Together; a 30-minute fireside chat chaired by Nickala Torkington about women changemakers, 12:20pm-12:50pm.
Revived – Performance Space 2 and 3
·     Bollyfit; an exercise class inspired by multicultural dance, 1pm-1:30pm
·     Councillor Ermina Bell will give a closing speech about the event, 1:35pm-1:45pm
·      DJ set to inspire and uplift
Glass Room/Sensory Space
·     Flourish Together; Bookable pop-up spa for treatments for 20 mins including Indian Head Massage in a clothed and seated setting, 11am-2pm
The events on the day will be accompanied by partner stalls of specialist community organisations including Manchester Action on Street Health (MASH), Manchester Rape Crisis, Fikawele African and Caribbean Mental Health, Walksafe  and Ahmed Iqbal Ullah (AIU) RACE Centre who will be on hand to raise awareness and promote their services.
Councillor Erinma Bell, Lead Member for Women, said: “Manchester has long been a city that has championed and supported women in the fight for gender equality.
“It’s fantastic to see the range of creativity and innovation in the events this year for International Women’s Day with the aim of accelerating further action for women to thrive personally and professionally. “I would encourage women from all backgrounds and generations to get involved, because there is something for everyone and to advocate for more allies join in on the celebrations and inform our priorities for advancing women’s equality this year.”
For more information or to book your place visit Women’s Community Festival.

Inspired by Libraries with Shaun Keaveny and Guy Garvey
2025-06-05 20:00 - 21:00 | Performance Space
Manchester City of Literature and Manchester Libraries present this special Festival of Libraries event.
Join us at Manchester Central Library for a special one-off event featuring two of the city’s most distinctive and much-loved voices — Guy Garvey, Mercury Prize–winning frontman of Elbow and presenter of BBC 6 Music’s Guy Garvey’s Finest Hour, and Shaun Keaveny, long-time BBC 6 Music broadcaster and now host of The Rock Show on BBC Radio 2 and Community Garden Radio. In this relaxed and thought-provoking conversation, Guy and Shaun will explore themes of community, creativity, working-class identity, music, memory, radio, and the role that places like libraries play in shaping our cultural lives — all delivered with the humour, warmth and honesty they’re known for.
About Shaun Keaveny
Shaun Keaveny is a much-loved broadcaster whose trademark wit, warmth and deep connection with listeners have made him one of the most distinctive voices on UK radio. He became a familiar presence to millions during his many years on BBC Radio 6 Music, and now fronts The Rock Show on BBC Radio 2. He retired from stand-up comedy due to public demand in 2017, and is also an enthusiastic failed musician. As the founder of the beloved Community Garden Radio, he continues to champion great music and meaningful conversation in his own inimitable style.
About Guy Garvey
With a career in music spanning three decades and a host of roles from renowned lyricist, singer, and producer to radio and TV host and soundtrack composer and producer, Guy Garvey has left an indelible mark on the music world. With his ‘best mates’ in elbow for over 25 years, Guy has created ten studio albums that have delivered critical acclaim, gold and platinum albums, UK Number Ones, a Mercury Music Prize, BRIT Award, NME Award, Mojo Award and three Ivor Novello Awards.
Guy remains a key part of the 6 Music line-up with his ‘Guy Garvey’s Finest Hour’ a mainstay of Sunday afternoons on the station since 2007. Guy’s contribution to UK culture was recognised with the award of honorary degree from Manchester Metropolitan University for his work in the arts, where he is also a visiting professor.

Full Volume Podcast - Episode 6: Kimberly Whittam
2025-06-23 - 2025-07-21 | https://push.fm/fl/actjsf7o-80012-96971
With Summer in full swing Full Volume: The Manchester Libraries Podcast returns for its spectacular sixth edition.
With more features than the complimentary newspapers in the BIPC, this month’s episode sees host Alan Lynch sitting down with acclaimed Manchester children’s author Kimberly Whittam. Kimberly’s new book ‘Quiet Storm’ has just been selected to be Manchester Libraries’ transition read 2025 – with 8,000 copies of the brilliant book gifted to local pupils to help them get ready for secondary school. Set in Manchester, ‘Quiet Storm’ tells the story of Storm who has never liked to stand out from the crowd, and is based in part on the author’s own experiences as a quiet and sometimes shy child. Find out more in the Full Volume interview.
From the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office), representatives Louise Murphy and Ellis Quinn, come in for a chat about their fascinating new exhibition ‘Our Lives, Our Privacy’ which has been a popular success at Central Library in recent months. Alan takes a deep dive with the duo as they mark the 40th anniversary of the ICO with this exhibition, and reflect on key moments in history when people’s right to privacy or access to information has been affected – positively or negatively – and the role they have played in protecting our rights.
There’s a finely tuned feature with the New Horizons Choir, as choirmaster Tom and members of the group tell us about how they and Central Library have worked in perfect harmony over the years, plus the high notes you too could hit in life as part of their community choir.
Continuing our blockbuster ‘Branch Out’ two-part special, Alan is joined by chair of the Manchester Libraries Trust Brendan O’Shea; Head of Libraries, Galleries and Culture Neil MacInnes, and Sally, the current Manager of Chorlton Library, who all appear on the podcast to offer their perspectives on the freshly refurbished space.
Elsewhere, Alan and his trusty sidekick Gary Parkinson bring you all the best of What’s On across Manchester Libraries this month, including plugs for the Board Games Club at Central Library, a ‘Behind The Scenes Tour’, and the Age Friendly events at Moss Side Powerhouse and Gorton Hub. Plus, there’s a sneak preview for the highly anticipated “Oasis Week” at Central Library coming this July, which will feature exclusive live sets, quizzes, Q&As, and so much more.
‘Full Volume: The Manchester Libraries Podcast’ takes listeners behind the shelves of our city’s much-loved libraries. Presented by the Central Library’s own Alan Lynch, every month the podcast lifts the lid on a treasure trove of insider tips, exclusive interviews, book reviews, and much more.
Receiving rave reviews and overwhelming support from listeners, the podcast has so far featured special guests such as celebrated author Dame Jacqueline Wilson, plus Manchester City Council’s Head of Libraries, Galleries, and Culture Neil MacInnes OBE, Manchester City Council photographer Barrie Leach speaking about his exhibition ‘Our Town Hall: Portraits of a Workforce’, legendary Manchester artist and illustrator Stanley Chow, Manchester’s Lord Mayor, Councillor John Hacking, BBC broadcaster and esteemed newspaper columnist Emma Barnett, and more.
‘Episode 6: Kimberly Whittam’, the sixth episode of ‘Full Volume: The Manchester Libraries Podcast’ is on all major streaming services now.
Turn it up, and tune in to Episode 6 of Full Volume – now: https://push.fm/fl/actjsf7o-80012-96971

Watch out for Episode 7 in July…
https://open.spotify.com/episode/09hLTcx3FdMqpXR9ehtOkC?referral=labelaffiliate&utm_source=1110l9T4fAp&utm_medium=Indie_Routenote&utm_campaign=labelaffiliate

Hannah Brine - Album Launch
2025-06-28 08:00 - 17:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Singer songwriter Hannah Brine launches her debut album Blue Sky Now with a live gig at the Manchester Central Library. Inspired by the Great American Songbook, with a voice & song writing style likened to Carole King, Norah Jones and Rumer, Hannah writes & performs lush ballads & lively jazz anthems, telling tales of growth & change, of life & loss, all destined to be modern classics.
“That voice, just wonderful isn’t it” Dean Jackson, BBC Introducing Midlands
“The Brilliant Hannah Brine” Chris Baxter, BBC Radio Wiltshire
“I feel like I want to have Hannah by my side every night singing softly and then everything will be OK.” Geeta Pendse, BBC Radio Leicester
Free – drop in
Please consider making a donation to support our Library Live programme here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

'Oasis Week' rolls into Manchester Central Library
2025-07-14 - 2025-07-20
This Summer, OASIS, make their highly anticipated return to their hometown and Central Library are getting ready to Roll With It.
As the Gallagher brothers prepare to rock Heaton Park, right here in the city centre, Central Library will be paying tribute to the legendary Manchester band with seven days of FREE festivities in its own “Oasis Week”.
Aligning with Manchester City Council’s official MCR Live 25 celebrations taking place across the city this Summer, the library has its own Masterplan of Oasis-themed programming, packed with live performances from Rock’n’Roll Stars, Supersonic film screenings, Liam’n’Noel look-a-like competitions, a head-shrinking Big Oasis Quiz, and so much more.
With events taking place daily from Monday 14th July, the week will conclude with ‘Live Forever’ – a day of special Oasis-themed live sessions on Saturday 19th July. Beginning with a little Morning Glory from the MANCHESTER STRING QUARTET performing classical renditions of Oasis hits; the following afternoon of performances in the Henry Watson Music Library will offer reimaginations by the UKULELE ORCHESTRA, sumptuous reworkings by vocal harmony group CANTER SEMPER, before a rousing headline performance by top-tier tribute act: NOASIS. Having played big venues like London’s Alexandra Palace to major festivals like Y-Not, Noasis are ‘The Definitive Oasis Tribute Band’ and will be appearing in the Music Library for an intimate, stripped-back set especially for “Oasis Week”. Tickets will be pay-what-you-like and available Friday 20 June @ 10am.
Earlier in the week, fans will also be able to Slide Away into the sounds of the NEW HORIZONS CHOIR who will be offering their own innovative take on Oasis hits. A fun, welcoming, inclusive choir who meet for a sing every week in the Manchester Central Library, get ready to enjoy an hour of uplifting en-masse singing of some of your favourites on Wednesday 16th July. Speaking about their show, the choir say:
“We are very excited to be part of Oasis week and hope you enjoy singing along with these brilliant Mancunian songs!”
Plus, for those in the mood for a Talk Tonight, then on 15th July, expect to find esteemed Northern music journalist and frontman of the Membranes / Goldblade JOHN ROBB at Central Library in-conversation about his brand new book ‘Live Forever: The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Oasis’. ‘Live Forever…’ promises a rollercoaster ride through the Gallagher brothers’ turbulent lives and the music that defined a generation. John will be appearing in-person for a Q&A and book-signing event to mark its release.
Elsewhere, the Archives+ and Sound Archives team will be digging deep into the Piccadilly Radio and Key103 audio archives and resurfacing some vintage interviews with Noel Gallagher from their 90s peak. Available to hear on the Sound & Vision pods on the ground floor of Central Library, the Oasis sound clips will feature as part of a new Piccadilly Radio Exhibition also launching in July.
Throughout the week, there will also be a screening of an Oasis film favourite – as picked by you the fans – in Central Library’s Performance Space, a chance to test your knowledge in The Big Oasis Quiz (with some tasty prizes up for grabs), and show-off your swagger in our Liam’n’Noel Look-a-Like competition.
The full programme for “Oasis Week” at Central Library is as follows:

Mon 14th July – QUIZ: The Big Oasis Quiz – with Big Oasis Prizes up for grabs!
[6.00pm, Henry Watson Music Library]

Tues 15th July – TALK: John Robb In-Conversation about his Oasis book ‘Live Forever: The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Oasis’
[6.30pm, Henry Watson Music Library]

Wed 16th July – MUSIC: New Horizons Choir performing Oasis songs
[6.00pm, Henry Watson Music Library]

Thurs 17th July – FILM: Mystery Screening of an Oasis documentary – chosen by you! [6.30pm, Performance Space]

Friday 18th July: COMPETITION JUDGING: Liam’n’Noel Look-a-like Competition – are you a Gallagher doppelganger? [1.00pm, Henry Watson Music Library]

Sat 19th July – MUSIC: Live Forever – A Day of Oasis-themed Live Sessions. Featuring:

– Manchester String Quartet [11.00am – 12.00pm, Shakespeare Hall Balcony]
– Ukulele Orchestra [12.00pm – 12.30pm, Henry Watson Music Library]
– Canter Semper [1.00pm – 1.30pm, Henry Watson Music Library]
– Noasis (stripped-back set) [2.00pm – 2.45pm, Henry Watson Music Library]

If you were one of the many who missed-out on tickets to see Oasis on their Live 25 Tour, Don’t Look Back In Anger because there will be plenty to enjoy at Central Library during “Oasis Week” this July.
Everyone is welcome and best of all attendees won’t have to pay a penny for anything – yes, It’s Good To Be FREE.
Oasis Week is kindly supported by Manchester Libraries Trust and will take place at Manchester Central Library 14th-19th July 2025.

Oasis Week: The Big Oasis Quiz
2025-07-14 18:00 - 19:30
Manchester Central Library presents… The Big Oasis Quiz.
This July, the big Central Library Quiz returns for a one-off “Oasis Week” special.
Do you know…

Your Alan McGee, from your Alan White?
Your “Hindu Times”, from your ‘Heathen Chemistry’?
Your Beady Eye, from your High Flying Birds?

Definitely? Or, just Maybeeee?
Then it’s time to prove you’re the ultimate Rock’n’Roll Star, show off your Oasis knowledge, and win fantastic prizes at our bonehead busting quiz…
Monday 14 JULY @ 6:00pm, at the Henry Watson Music Library.

******
“Oasis Week” at Central Library is brought to you with thanks to the Manchester Libraries Trust. Find the full programme here: https://librarylive.co.uk/event/oasis-week-rolls-into-manchester-central-library/
“Oasis Week” is part of the Manchester City Council ‘MCR Live 25‘ – a summer of music, art, markets, and unforgettable vibes all summer long. It includes:

music-themed markets
pop-up shops
a festival bar
impromptu performances
a fabulous guitar-themed trail
artworks and exhibitions across the city.

For full details, go to visitmanchester.com/mcrlive25.

John Robb: 'Live Forever: The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Oasis' - Oasis Week Q&A
2025-07-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Henry Watson Music Library
For those in the mood for a Talk Tonight, on 15th July, expect to find esteemed Northern music journalist and frontman of the Membranes / Goldblade JOHN ROBB in-conversation about his brand new book ‘Live Forever: The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Oasis’ at Manchester Central Library.
Part of “Oasis Week” at Central Library, John will be appearing in-person for an intimate talk and Q&A with local tour guide and Oasis expert Joe Feeley about the book in the Henry Watson Music Library.
‘Live Forever…’ promises a rollercoaster ride through the Gallagher brothers’ turbulent lives and the music that defined a generation. And John Robb was there every step of the way.
In this, the definitive book on Britain’s biggest band, he peels back the layers of Manchester’s best-known musical export, revealing a tale of ambition, ego, talent and a whole lot of attitude. From the estates of South Manchester to the dizzying heights of global stardom, Live Forever is a rollercoaster ride through the Gallagher brothers’ turbulent lives and the music that defined a generation. But it is also a portrait of Britain around the turn of the millennium and the cultural forces and places that shaped, and were shaped by, two cocksure upstarts from Burnage – from art to fashion, and from football to politics.
Playful, funny and irreverent, and drawing on dozens of interviews and first-hand stories, this book puts Oasis squarely in the pantheon of music royalty as the last great rock ’n’ roll stars.
The Q&A will be chaired by local tour guide Joe Feeley. Alongside his expert tours of Manchester city centre, Joe also leads the legendary Rock And Goal Tour and has recently launched the Wonderwalk Oasis Tour. A musician and guide with real Oasis pedigree, Joe grew up with the Gallaghers, was in school with Liam and Noel, and their families in Ireland also share history. His Wonderwalk tour offers a deep dive into Oasis’s roots and the wider Manchester music scene, and his personal connection to the band means he has insights and stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

Joe and John will be chatting about ‘Live Forever: The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Oasis’ and more at Manchester Central Library on Tuesday 15 July.
Copies will be available at the event courtesy of Blackwells, and John will be available for signings after the event.
Tickets are free, but any donations to the library warmly welcomed.
Tickets available from 10AM on Friday 20 June:
John Robb: ‘Live Forever: The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Oasis’ Q&A Tickets, Tue, Jul 15, 2025 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

******
“Oasis Week” at Central Library is part of the Manchester City Council ‘MCR Live 25‘ – a summer of music, art, markets, and unforgettable vibes all summer long. It includes:

music-themed markets
pop-up shops
a festival bar
impromptu performances
a fabulous guitar-themed trail
artworks and exhibitions across the city.

For full details, go to visitmanchester.com/mcrlive25.
This event is part of “Oasis Week” at Central Library, kindly supported by Manchester Libraries Trust.
For more information, and to secure your tickets for some of the limited-capacity events of “Oasis Week” at Central Library head to: librarylive.co.uk

New Horizons Choir Sing... OASIS!
2025-07-16 18:00 - 19:00
Part of “Oasis Week” at Central Library, join us for a sensational singalong with the NEW HORIZONS CHOIR.
Led by Tom Guest, the choir will be offering their own innovative take on Oasis hits with their stunning vocal talents.
A fun, welcoming, inclusive choir who meet for a sing every week in the Manchester Central Library, get ready to enjoy an hour of uplifting enmasse singing of some of your favourites on the evening of Wednesday 16th July.
Speaking about their upcoming show, the choir say: “We are very excited to be part of Oasis week and hope you enjoy singing along with these brilliant Mancunian songs!”
New Horizons is a fun, welcoming, inclusive choir who meet for a sing every week in the Manchester Central Library. They are an unauditioned choir, so everyone is welcome to come and enjoy an hour of uplifting singing and we have a repertoire of songs from 80s pop ballads through classics and showtunes to contemporary bangers. They are primarily a singing group for well-being, with the focus on enjoying the mental health benefits singing together can bring and they also give performances at Manchester Cathedral, Gorton Monastery and of course Manchester Central Library.
New Horizons Choir sings Oasis takes place at 6pm on Wednesday 16 July.
Free – just drop in!
******
“Oasis Week” at Central Library is part of the Manchester City Council ‘MCR Live 25‘ – a summer of music, art, markets, and unforgettable vibes all summer long. It includes:

music-themed markets
pop-up shops
a festival bar
impromptu performances
a fabulous guitar-themed trail
artworks and exhibitions across the city.

For full details, go to visitmanchester.com/mcrlive25.
This event is part of “Oasis Week” at Central Library, kindly supported by Manchester Libraries Trust.
For more information, and to secure your tickets for some of the limited-capacity events of “Oasis Week” at Central Library head to: librarylive.co.uk

Oasis Film Night - Vote for your favourite
2025-07-17 17:30 - 19:30
Mystery Screening of an Oasis documentary – chosen by you!
Part of “Oasis Week” at Central Library, come along to our Oasis Film Night where you choose the title.
Many a great film has been made about the Gallagher brothers over the years, but which is the greatest of them all?
From ‘Familiar to Millions‘ to ‘Lord Don’t Slow Me Down’ to ‘Supersonic‘ and more, every Oasis film to date has been crammed with the razor sharp quips and rock’n’roll attitude that has cemented them as one of the world’s most legendary bands.
Presenting Oasis fans with the opportunity to vote on the night for their favourite and experience it on the big screen and soundsystem of our Performance Space, this special Oasis Week film night promises to be a one-off opportunity to revisit a classic with fellow fans.
Entry is Free.
Screening at the Central Library Performance Space, on Thursday 17th July @ 5.30pm.

******
“Oasis Week” at Central Library is part of the Manchester City Council ‘MCR Live 25‘ – a summer of music, art, markets, and unforgettable vibes all summer long. It includes:

music-themed markets
pop-up shops
a festival bar
impromptu performances
a fabulous guitar-themed trail
artworks and exhibitions across the city.

For full details, go to visitmanchester.com/mcrlive25.
This event is part of “Oasis Week” at Central Library, kindly supported by Manchester Libraries Trust.
For more information, and to secure your tickets for some of the limited-capacity events of “Oasis Week” at Central Library head to: librarylive.co.uk

'Live Forever' - A Day of Oasis Music - Live!
2025-07-19 11:00 - 15:00
“Oasis Week” at Central Library will conclude with ‘Live Forever’ – a day of special Oasis-themed live sessions on Saturday 19th July.
The day will begin with a little Morning Glory from the MANCHESTER STRING QUARTET performing classical renditions of Oasis hits in the Central Library Entrance (11am-12pm).

Then an early afternoon performance in the Henry Watson Music Library will offer unique reimaginations of the Gallaghers’s oeuvre by the Ukulele Orchestra: STRETFORD UKE (12-12.30pm).
There will also be sumptuous reworkings by Manchester vocal harmony group CANTER SEMPER; rest assured Wonderwall will never have sounded so good (1-1.30pm).
All before a rousing headline performance by top-tier tribute act: NOASIS. Having played big venues like London’s Alexandra Palace to major festivals like Y-Not, Noasis are ‘The Definitive Oasis Tribute Band’ and will be appearing in the Music Library for an intimate, stripped-back set especially for “Oasis Week” (2-2.45pm).
Noasis tickets are limited and pay-what-you-like – available now HERE.
All other shows are free – just drop in!
******
“Oasis Week” at Central Library is part of the Manchester City Council ‘MCR Live 25‘ – a summer of music, art, markets, and unforgettable vibes all summer long. It includes:

music-themed markets
pop-up shops
a festival bar
impromptu performances
a fabulous guitar-themed trail
artworks and exhibitions across the city.

For full details, go to visitmanchester.com/mcrlive25.
This event is part of “Oasis Week” at Central Library, kindly supported by Manchester Libraries Trust.
For more information, and to secure your tickets for some of the limited-capacity events of “Oasis Week” at Central Library head to: librarylive.co.uk

Noasis [Live!]
2025-07-19 13:30 - 15:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Didn’t get Oasis tickets? Then its time to ‘Stop Crying Your Heart Out’…
Appearing for a special stripped-back appearance, Central Library presents… NOASIS – live!
On the day that Oasis will be appearing at Heaton Park for the second weekend of their sold-out shows, Central Library is delighted to be offering something special for those who missed out.
Having played big venues like London’s Alexandra Palace to major festivals like Y-Not, Noasis are ‘The Definitive Oasis Tribute Band’. The headline act of Central Library’s “Oasis Week” festivities, this top-tier tribute act will be performing in the intimate setting of the Henry Watson Music Library.
Performing as a three-piece for the occasion, expect perfectly pared-back renditions of classics like “Live Forever”, “Don’t Look Back In Anger”, and many more.
With thanks to the support from the Manchester Libraries Trust, tickets will be pay-what-you-like and available Friday 20 June @ 10am.
All donations warmly welcomed.
Tickets: Noasis – Live! Tickets, Sat 19 Jul 2025 at 14:00 | Eventbrite

******
“Oasis Week” at Central Library is part of the Manchester City Council ‘MCR Live 25‘ – a summer of music, art, markets, and unforgettable vibes all summer long. It includes:

music-themed markets
pop-up shops
a festival bar
impromptu performances
a fabulous guitar-themed trail
artworks and exhibitions across the city.

For full details, go to visitmanchester.com/mcrlive25.

Leo HC Single Launch
2025-08-01 14:00 - 16:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Leo HC is a 20 year old solo musician, creating alternative folk tracks to soothe the soul. Equipped, usually, with an acoustic guitar, his voice and lots of reverb, his music creates an introspective and melancholic atmosphere for all to listen and enjoy. His debut album was released on 8 November 2024. Leo is currently based in Sheffield for studies and is also a member of the Sheffield-based band Junk, but was born and raised in Greater Manchester.
He launches his new single, Climbing, with this event.
Free – just drop in

Ear Soup - Acoustic Food for the Soul
2025-09-27 14:00 - 15:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Join us in the Henry Watson Music Library for one hour of musical magic.
Free – drop in. Please make a donation to support our Library Live cultural programme at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes or online

Macdara Yeates and Jennifer Reid
2025-10-01 08:00 - 17:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Join us for a special performance featuring Macdara Yeates and Jennifer Reid trading ballads and broadsides on related topics to illustrate the shared cultures of Dublin and Manchester and the song traditions that would have been active in the two cities in the industrial revolution.
Macdara Yeates is an Irish folk singer. Born and raised in Dublin, Yeates is one of a crop of artists associated with the recent resurgence of young folk talent in the Irish capital, alongside acts such as Lankum, Ye Vagabonds, and Landless. In 2012, Macdara became a founding member of The Night Before Larry Got Stretched, a monthly Dublin folk gathering, counting such luminaries as Lisa O’Neill, Ian Lynch and Radie Peat (Lankum) among its earliest attendees. Following the release of Traditional Singing from Dublin, Macdara was nominated for two RTÉ Radio One Folk Awards, including a nomination for ‘Best Folk Singer’ alongside Ríognach Connolly, Cathy Joran and Christy Moore.
‘Macdara Yeates is a mighty chanter‘ – Christy Moore
Jennifer Reid is a performer of nineteenth century Lancashire dialect and Victorian broadside ballads. Folk music has lost its way, and people have lost track of their geographical heritage. The working classes made music as a provocation and this is a tradition Jennifer continues.

“Lancashire dialect and Victorian Broadside ballad singer Jennifer Reid is brutally honest, powerful and authentic. Reid deserves our attention and embodies the gritty, honest truth of folk music. Reid reminds us that the streets, pubs and alleyways is where folk lives and not behind the glass of the studio.” – Folkmylife.co.uk

Jennifer plays the character of Barb in Shane Meadows’ period drama The Gallows Pole. She has supported Pulp, John Cooper Clarke, for Chanel’s prestigious Metiers d’Art show, and is in the second year of touring with Eliza Carthy. In April 2025, she toured Aotearoa’s north island to critical acclaim and rave reviews.

‘She is singing our belonging to our land, history, ancestry, with streetwise modernity’ – Casey Orr
Free – drop in
Please consider making a donation if you can here or at one of our cash or contactless donation boxes in Central Library

Cole Stacey - Live
2025-11-18 18:00 - 20:30 | Performance Space
Cole Stacey performs his debut album live in the magnificent Manchester Central Library, part of a series of 5 concerts in truly remarkable places.
Immerse yourself in this remarkable space in the heart of Manchester, for one of five unique concerts with Cole Stacey as he presents his critically acclaimed debut album Postcards From Lost Places.
The concert itself will take place in the Performance Space in Manchester’s iconic Central Library. Internally, the room sits alongside Archives+, with the landmark Midland Hotel forming the external backdrop beyond the grand floor-to-ceiling windows.
Bringing together his years of experience on stage, Cole’s deeply personal solo shows are rooted in storytelling, directed by a love of popular song and have connection with people and places at their heart.
See Cole’s latest video – an acoustic re-imagining of Fade To Grey featuring Midge Ure, which is climbing the charts.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS AN EARLY EVENING SHOW STARTING AT 6PM

“A magnificent sound” – Patrick Kielty, BBC Radio 5 Live
“Breathtaking, that incredible voice” – TradFolk
“He is incredible”– Times Radio
The first 20 tickets available for a reduced price of £13
Book Tickets by clicking the ‘Book Now’ button below or on eventbrite here

Christmas Singalong
2025-12-17 17:15 - 18:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
Ho Ho Ho! Come and join the New Horizons Choir for some Christmassy songs, a mince pie and some festive cheer. The choir will be singing in the Henry Watson Music Library on 17 December at 5.15 pm. All welcome to be serenaded by the singers and to join in with all your favourite Christmas tunes. See you then! Merry Xmas!

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

VR Headset Experiences
2026-02-04 11:00 - 2026-02-07 19:00 | Ground Floor
For three weeks in February, Manchester Libraries will be hosting state-of-the-art VR headsets and a feast of FREE digital experiences.
Get ready for brand new immersive experiences with David Attenborough, and Laika – The First Dog In Space. Plus, Wallace & Gromit, The Berlin Blitz, Vaughan Williams’ ‘The Lark Ascending’, meditation experiences, and more.
Manchester Libraries are one of nine library services in England to take part in Digital Spaces, an innovative collaboration to enhance digital engagement and accessibility in libraries. This ambitious new programme is in association with Arts Council England, BFI, awarding National Lottery funding and The Space.
After a resoundingly successful debut last summer, which saw hundreds of Manchester residents dive into virtual realities, Manchester Libraries are delighted to confirm that the headsets will return for a series of FREE public drop-in sessions at Manchester Central Library (4-7 Feb), Abraham Moss Library (9-14 Feb), and Wythenshawe Forum (17-20 Feb).
Across the three weeks, visitors to these libraries will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an array of awe-inspiring virtual worlds featuring some familiar faces, plus leap into some brand new experiences too. Amongst the thrilling programme of VR offerings, the experiences on offer will include:

**New** Hold the World with Sir David Attenborough: Embark on a ground-breaking interactive VR tour of the Natural History Museum in London with the most iconic of guides. Sir David, who was filmed by more than 100 cameras and digitally recreated as a lifelike SD hologram for the experience, acts as a private guide, imparting his expert knowledge on rare objects from †he museum’s collection, including a blue whale, a stegosaurus, and more. Get hands-on with rare specimens from its world-famous collection, and experience priceless artefacts coming back to life.

Wallace & Gromit in the Grand Getaway: Step into the shoes (and paws) of the legendary Aardman duo as they blast-off on a cracking new adventure that will take you from the familiar sights of West Wallaby Street to the strange surroundings of deep space. An interactive treat – all in glorious VR-O-Rama!

**New** Laika – Witness one of the most poignant true stories in history with Laika, an immersive VR short film from BAFTA and Academy Award-winning director Asif Kapadia. Adapted from Nick Abadzis’ acclaimed graphic novel, Laika will transport you to the dawn of the Space Age as it tells the story of an unwanted stray dog who became Earth’s first space traveller.

The Philharmonia Virtual Orchestra – The Lark Ascending: Experience a mesmerising 360-degree performance of Vaughan Williams’ masterpiece featuring Nicola Benedetti.

Monoliths: Explore England’s northern landscape through the voices and spoken word of three women, in this poignant XR experience by Pilot Theatre and One to One Development Trust.

Berlin Blitz: 80 years on from VE Day, travel back in time to experience this especially tense period of WWII history from a seat in the cockpit of a Lancaster Bomber. Hold tight.

Phase Space: Escape from the hustle and bustle of life, with this calming, restorative and meditative experience. Feel calmer and more in control in just 7 minutes.

The VR headset experiences arrive as part of Manchester Libraries recently announced participation in the new Libraries Digital Network, a ground-breaking collaboration with eight other library services, including: Bradford, Cambridgeshire, Coventry, Leeds, Newham, Nottinghamshire, Somerset, and Sunderland. This innovative network is the first of its kind, uniquely combining local relevance with national impact. It aims to empower our local community and is supported by comprehensive training for our colleagues, who will guide our networks on exciting digital journeys.
The Digital Spaces VR headsets will be freely available to the public to experience in a series of open drop-in sessions throughout February.
Come along to a session at these dates and times as follows:
Wednesday 4 Feb – Drop-In Sessions @ Central Library

Drop-In Session [10.00 – 12.00]

Drop-In Session [13.00 – 15.00]

Drop-In Session [16.00 – 18.00]

Thursday 5 Feb – Drop-In Sessions @ Central Library

Drop-In Session [10.00 – 12.00]

Drop-In Session [13.00 – 15.00]

Drop-In Session [16.00 – 18.00]

Friday 6 Feb – Drop-In Sessions @ Central Library

Drop-In Session [9.00 – 11.00]

Drop-In Session [12.00 – 14.00]

Drop-In Session [15.00 – 16.45]

Saturday 7 Feb – Drop-In Sessions @ Central Library

Drop-In Session [10.00 – 12.00]

Drop-In Session [14.00 – 16.00]

Monday 9 Feb – Sessions @ Abraham Moss Library

Drop-In Session [Afternoon] – Ask staff for details

Tuesday 10 Feb – Sessions @ Abraham Moss Library

Drop-In Session [Afternoon] – Ask staff for details

Wednesday 11 Feb – Sessions @ Abraham Moss Library

Drop-In Session [Afternoon] – Ask staff for details

Friday 13 Feb – Sessions @ Abraham Moss Library

Drop-In Session [Afternoon] – Ask staff for details

Saturday 14 Feb – Sessions @ Abraham Moss Library

Drop-In Sessions – Ask staff for details

Tuesday 17 Feb – Sessions at Wythenshawe Forum Library Creative Space

Drop-In Sessions – Ask staff for details

Wednesday 18 Feb – Sessions at Wythenshawe Forum Library Creative Space

Drop-In Sessions – Ask staff for details

Thursday 19 Feb – Sessions at Wythenshawe Forum Library Creative Space

Drop-In Sessions – Ask staff for details

Friday 20 Feb – Sessions at Wythenshawe Forum Library Creative Space

Drop-In Sessions – Ask staff for details

All sessions are 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

Author Q&A: Solid Bond in Your Heart - A People's History of The Jam
2026-02-24 18:00 - 19:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
‘Solid Bond In Your Heart: A People’s History of The Jam’ is a new book by acclaimed author and journalist Malcolm Wyatt.
Published in 2025 by Manchester-based Spenwood Books, it tells the tale of one the most iconic and inspirational bands of all time: The Jam. Exploding on to the British music scene with their April 1977 debut single and LP, In The City, they went on to pen nine top-10 and 18 top-40 singles up to their December 1982 farewell, including UK No.1s ‘Going Underground’, ‘Start!’, ‘A Town Called Malice’, and swansong, ‘Beat Surrender’,
Told by the band, members of their inner circle, loyal fans and contemporaries, ‘Solid Bond In Your Heart: A People’s History of The Jam’ charts the band’s epic rise and celebrates the powerful affection they still command.
With a foreword from Paul Weller, there are also contributions from bandmates Bruce and Rick, plus co-founder Steve Brookes, with an afterword from broadcaster Gary Crowley and accounts from over 500 fans. And along the way, there are words and photos from the band’s many North-West appearances, not least at Manchester Apollo, Granada TV, Middleton Civic Hall, the University of Salford, and Saddleworth Arts Festival.
Alongside ‘Solid Bond In Your Heart: A People’s History of The Jam’, its author Malcolm Wyatt has penned 2023’s ‘Wild! Wild! Wild! A People’s History of Slade’, and ‘This Day in Music’s Guide to The Clash’.
Appearing in the Henry Watson Music Library on the first floor of Central Library on 24 February, expect an intimate, in-person talk, Q&A and book signing with the author.
Did you know…at Manchester Central Library and our neighbourhood libraries, 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.

Didsbury Singers: International Women's Day Concert
2026-03-07 13:00 - 14:00 | Henry Watson Music Library
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Didsbury Singers will be appearing at the Henry Watson Music Library for a celebration of choral music.

Didsbury Singers are a local, aspirational upper voices choir from South Manchester. Conducted by the award winning Hannah Brine and with musical accompaniment by Isaac Horton, the group will be honouring International Women’s Day with a selection of music which centres on female strength.

Founded in 2025, the group has quickly gained a reputation for performances with a warm, inclusive atmosphere and their ambitious repertoire. Singing a wide variety of music, from folk and classical to pop and jazz, the group have been known to sing a diverse array of music by the likes of Billie Eilish, to the Spanish song “Cantar!”, and Sarah Quartel’s “How Can I Keep From Singing”.

Their IWM performance will see them take on songs with a female emphasis such as Margaret Water’s “Lineage” in the repertoire (watch here).

Expect a moving, empowering performance from this highly talented collective.

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ABOUT

The Didsbury Singers is a friendly, upper‑voices community choir based in the Didsbury/Withington area of Manchester. It is led by Hannah Brine, an award‑winning conductor whose choirs have performed at major events such as the BBC Proms, the Royal Variety Show, and the Olivier Awards.

For more information on the choir head to: www.didsburysingers.co.uk
Or find them @didsburysingers on socials.

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Didsbury Singers will perform in the Henry Watson Music Library on Saturday 7 March, 1pm-2pm.

Entry to this event is free to the public.
