What’s that sound as the sun goes down? It’s Moonee Valley’s bars, motels, restaurants, cafes and theatres coming to life at night, with musicians playing soul, jazz, r’n’b, blues, flamenco, indie pop, Irish jams and more, for Valley Sounds.
From 17–26 May, almost 30 free live shows will be presented across Moonee Valley for Valley Sounds, a brand-new music event set to reverberate into every corner of the inner north-west.
City of Moonee Valley Mayor, Cr Pierce Tyson, said more live music and a vibrant night-time economy were among the key objectives of the ambitious and far-reaching arts and culture strategy adopted by Council last year, Igniting Creativity in Moonee Valley 23-27.
“As the weather cools down, arts and culture in Moonee Valley are only just heating up. It’s so exciting to be linking our favourite local venues with the best music talent we have to offer,” Mayor Tyson said.
“Our Valley Sounds program has been curated with all budgets, tastes and Moonee Valley localities in mind. With every event being free, and the diversity of acts, it means there really is something for everyone.”
Mayor Tyson said music fans were encouraged to come early or stay late to grab a snack, drink and meal from the hosting venues, or explore the multitude of options in Moonee Valley’s trading districts.
Highlights of the Valley Sounds program include:
- Friday, 17 May: three opening night events – Nardia Blues Band at the Union Hotel in Ascot Vale, Trio ThenNowWhen at the Clocktower Jazz Café in Moonee Ponds and the official launch event, Paul Williamson’s ‘Happy House’ at the Edward Abbot WineBar in Strathmore
- Wednesday, 22 May: celebrated Australian violinist Xani Kolac brings her electrifying blend of genres, loops and impassioned performance to Hold Bar in Essendon
- Thursday, 23 May: Australia’s premier all-women collective of songwriters and performers, Women of Soul, will electrify Freddie’s in Essendon
- Saturday, 25 May: the Clocktower Centre in Moonee Ponds will swing and sway to Swingin’ Valley Sounds, with vocal luminaries including Wendy Stapleton and Nichaud Fitzgibbon singing swing favourites and modern tunes reinterpreted, backed by music director Rob Simone’s big band.
“Everyone is invited to venture into the Moonee Valley night with us to experience an incredible lineup of performances at bars, restaurants and other venues across the Valley,” Mayor Tyson said.
“Moonee Valley is on its way to becoming a go-to destination for arts and cultural events, so join us for Valley Sounds and be part of our after-dark evolution.”
