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 […]
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 […]
In collaboration with Instituto Cervantes, representatives of all the Latin American women communities in Manchester are here to commemorate this day through dance and literature from wonderful writers who fight for women’s rights in Latin America. International Women's Day is a powerful platform to raise awareness about the challenges and inequalities that women face, such […]
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 […]
'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 […]
Calling all little groovers! Enjoy a fun, high-energy session filled with music and dance. Get ready to show off some moves – we’ll bring the tunes! Most suitable for under 4s. Part of Super Duper Family Festival. Discover the full programme at https://www.visitmanchester.com/super-duper-family-festival/ Free entry - just drop in Please make a donation to support […]
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. […]
Join us for this talk inspired by Geoff Brown's book, 'A People's History of the Anti-Nazi League, 1977-1981'. Discover how the Anti-Nazi League (ANL) emerged from the streets, schools and music scenes of late 1970s Britain to confront racism and the far right. Free - book tickets here and click 'Book Now' below.
Join jazz singer Hannah Brine for an intimate afternoon of winter music designed to get you right in the mood for Christmas. Those lucky enough to see Hannah open for Rumer at this year’s Buxton International Festival know how great her voice and her original songs are. There’s a reason why she’s been awarded Best […]
Photographer Tracey Welch and five musicians from diverse musical backgrounds come together in an exploration of photography and music. A fascinating collaborative project and exhibition, inspiring new connections, shared experience and experimental composition. In 2022, photography and music came together in the Stroboscopic Project, an exploration of photographic technique and musical inspiration. Such was its […]
Calling all little groovers! Show us some moves at this fun and interactive music and dance session in the music library on the first floor of Central Library. We’ll bring the music, so get ready to hit the dancefloor! Suitable for children under 4. Free – just drop in Please consider making a donation if […]
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 […]
From dedicated performance spaces to stairwells, screens, nooks and domes, Central Library might directly inspire your next event or intervention. Contact us to arrange a tour.
