Expect the unexpected is the message from The Hive as it launches an exciting Spring programme of events.
A host of talks and activities will be taking place under the theme ‘Out Loud’ from April to June, from music icons to local radio’s role in developing new music talent. Delve into the worlds of music, sound, communication, spoken word, oral history, voices and expression, with events and experiences that you might not usually expect to see at a library.
Hive Events Co-ordinator Gee Cartmell said: “Although libraries might traditionally be about quiet study and silent reading, we were really keen to bring the world of sound and music into The Hive with our events this Spring to highlight that libraries offer so many cultural experiences too. We’ve got some fascinating topics and there really is something for everyone, whether it’s the power of radio, legendary music and the recording process, the influence of using your voice or budding musicians.”
Events include a talk on ‘David Bowie and Identity’ on April 18 by the University of Worcester’s Principal Lecturer in Media & Film Studies, Dr Barbara Mitra, who will explore the ever-evolving personas of the musician and artist. There will also be talks from other University of Worcester academics, including historian Professor Darren Oldridge on the media’s censorship of a TV drama, and Dr Paul Newland, from the School of Humanities, who will be talking about the role of place in songs.
Another talk, on May 1, will look at the impact of radio on grassroots music. Producer for several BBC Radio stations, Harry Bozman, and multi-instrumentalist and host of Brum Radio’s local grassroots show, Pete Donnelly, will speak on the role of radio in supporting and developing up-and-coming artists in 2024 using their experience in radio and the music industry.
The Librarian of Weeping Bank, which brings engaging performances of ghost stories to people through their local library, returns to The Hive on May 9 to present POCK – an immersive talk after dark that will draws listeners into the shadowy world of witchcraft, possession and the occult.
On June 15, three-time Grammy award winning mix engineer, recording engineer, record producer and record label owner Andrew Scheps will be giving a free talk on his life in the music industry. He has worked with the likes of Adele, Beyonce, Black Sabbath, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Hozier and The 1975.
The Hive is jointly owned by the University of Worcester and Worcestershire County Council.
You can see all the events and how to book tickets on The Hive website’s Out Loud What’s On webpage.