Buskers sought for national music event

Sunderland will take part in the event on 21 June following its success last year

Buskers are being encouraged to sign up to a national music event which will be held for the second time in Sunderland.

The city centre will host performances as part of Make Music Day on 21 June to highlight local talent, which will also be streamed online across the UK.

Spots are available between 11:00 and 15:00 BST in High Street West, Sunniside, Market Square, Park Lane and The Bridges.

Peter McIntyre, Sunderland City Council’s executive director of city development, said: “Sunderland has a thriving local music scene with lots of talented acts we can all be proud of, and Make Music Day is a great way to showcase this."

He added: “The day is a brilliant addition to the city’s events calendar and we know from last year’s event that the live music helps to create a real buzz in the city centre."

Anyone who wants to be considered is being asked to apply online.

More than 35,000 performers took part in last year's nationwide event

The event - which started in France in 1982 - has since reached more than 125 countries, with singers from all genres taking part.

'Showcasing talent'

Sharon Appleby, chief executive of Sunderland BID, which is helping to organise the event locally, said: "I hope as many people as possible will head to the city centre and enjoy the performances from our local musicians.

“We’re looking for musicians playing different instruments along with artists, singers and any other performers linked with music."

Organisers hope the event will showcase local talent

In 2023, more than 35,000 performers took part nationwide.

Laura Brewis, project director at Sunderland social enterprise We Make Culture, added: “It gives the many young artists we work with through our Young Musicians Project a chance to showcase their talent, alongside more established local artists and is a brilliant way to show people how much creativity and potential there is in the city."