Elbow singer Guy Garvey and some of his musical chums are to take over Manchester Central Library on September 6 for a special live edition of his show.
The special edition of Guy’s Finest Hour show will explore the unique relationship between music and literature as part of BBC 6 Music’s celebration of libraries.
Guy will be joined on the programme by Radiohead’s Phil Selway and New Order’s Stephen Morris to discuss the literary influences that have impacted on their work.
There will also be an interview with the singer and songwriter Jim James from My Morning Jacket and a live acoustic performance by the American rock band Heartless Bastards, while Guy will receive a lesson in the art of drumming from Phil and Stephen.
Phil will also present the Central Library with a drum kit to mark the three-year anniversary of the death of Radiohead drum technician Scott Johnson’s passing that will go on permanent display at the recently refurbished venue.
Scott’s family and the Radiohead management team have marked his passing by giving drum kits to young people across the world so they can enjoy playing.
And Phil said: “For me, libraries can be to books what good venues are to music; they provide a great setting that heightens the experience of reading. So, I’m really looking forward to being in Manchester Central Library.
“Literature and music have a similar impact on me. They both allow me to immerse myself in other worlds which can then alter my perception and understanding of people and places around me.”
The show is part of the 6 Music Celebrates Libraries series and, as part of Guy’s show, listeners will be encouraged to tweet their recommended read along with a supporting soundtrack to #6MusicCelebratesLibraries, giving listeners the opportunity to join in the day’s discussions and provide their thoughts on the works of music and literature that have influenced their own lives.
Julie Cullen, Editor for 6 Music said: “Following the success of last year’s 6 Music Celebrates Libraries on the network, we wanted to explore further the fascinating relationship between literature and the art of song-writing.
“With Guy receiving the commemorative drum kit on behalf of the Manchester Central Library, this felt like a fitting moment to honour Scott and celebrate this theme.”
As part of the programme, listeners will be encouraged to tweet their recommended read along with a supporting soundtrack to #6MusicCelebratesLibraries, giving listeners the opportunity to join in the day’s discussions and provide their thoughts on the works of music and literature that have influenced their own lives.
Manchester Central Library will be hosting a variety of family-friendly activities from midday until 4pm including Minecraft Mask Making, story and song time for under 5’s, and an opportunity to ‘start your own band’ by trying the guitars, drums and other musical instruments available to library visitors.
Image courtesy of ricardo266, with thanks.
