insideSUSSEX Magazine Issue 03 - May 2015 | Page 42

MUSICFESTIVALS A SUMMER OF MUSIC Sussex has been the starting point for many fabulous and famous musicians. Brett Anderson of Suede, Robert Smith of The Cure, Natasha Bedingfield, and Billy Idol were all either born in the county or made their home here at some point, and there seems no end to the inspiration that Sussex has to give. Stunning scenery which ranges from beautiful beaches to scenic woodland walks gives artists their very own muse. It should come as no surprise then that there are plenty of fantastic music festivals in Sussex throughout the year, encompassing every genre and promoting both well known and up and coming musicians. Whatever kind of music you’re into, there will be a festival just right for you. Glyndebourne Festival // 21 May-30 Aug In 1934, John Christie and his wife, the opera singer Audrey Mildmay, decided that there was a very real need for an opera festival in the UK. They chose Glyndebourne, a worldrenowned opera house, to host their dream, and since then the festival has grown, going from strength to strength and attracting stars from the world of opera to its three month long set of performances. In 2015 you will be able to enjoy a vast array of opera, from Carmen and the Rape of Lucretia, to talks on the works and your artist recitals. www.glyndebourne.com Kaiser Chiefs play secret show at The Great Escape 2013 © Mike Burnell The Great Escape // 14-16 May The Great Escape (TGE) is a new music festival that showcases emerging artists from all over the world. Over 400 up and coming bands play in 35 Brighton venues, accessible on one wristband. It’s the first place to discover your new favorite band and see them in an intimate setting before they go on to headline major festival stages. The Alternative Escape, the Brighton Dome Shows, secret gigs, club nights and spontaneous collaborations all add to the festivities and make this weekend in Brighton one not to miss. www.greatescapefestival.com © Bill Cooper 42