A dedicated museum celebrating the Isle of Wight’s rich musical legacy has welcomed its first visitors in Newport.
The Wight Music Experience showcases thousands of exhibits that chronicle the Island’s musical journey, spanning from historic festivals to contemporary chart successes including Wet Leg and Coach Party.
Historic festival legacy lives on
Ray Foulk, co-promoter of the legendary 1968, 1969 and 1970 Isle of Wight Festivals, officially opened the museum at the recent launch.
Those groundbreaking events drew hundreds of thousands of music fans to the Island for unforgettable performances by Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen and numerous other iconic artists.
The museum also celebrates more recent musical gatherings including Postfest, Bestival and Rhythmtree.
Treasures from musical past
Visitors can discover an extensive collection featuring vintage posters, t-shirts, beer mugs, vinyl records and magazines.
The exhibition includes remarkable curiosities such as a festival sleeping bag from 1970, council documents and Victorian sheet music.
The museum occupies the upper floor of Triple A Records in St James Street, directly opposite the Man in the Moon pub.
Launch celebrations feature film and music
Ray Foulk screened footage from the 1970 festival during the launch event and discussed the challenges he and his brothers, Ron and Bill, encountered whilst securing permission to stage the groundbreaking event.
He also signed copies of the new edition of his book Last Great Event.
Live music entertainment continued throughout the day, with Jess Leigh Ong and Alex Watson performing acoustic versions of festival classics.
Mission to preserve the Island’s musical story
Jonathan Bacon, co-founder and proprietor of Wight Music Experience, explained the museum’s purpose.
“The proper archiving and display of the wealth of Island music history is long overdue.
“This is the beginning of our project which in celebrating the rich musical history of the Island will also hopefully revive memories and inspire future generations of Island musicians.”
“We are always looking for new exhibits and anyone with items of interest is very welcome to get in touch,” he added.
“We will soon be opening an additional exhibition space in Ryde Arcade.”
Visitor information and future events
The museum operates Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm.
Regular live events, talks and signings will form part of the ongoing programme.
Visitors can find additional details on the museum’s website.
