Free music event on Newcastle Quayside will showcase local talent

This weekend will see Newcastle Quayside come alive to sound of music when a free event which made its debut last year now ups the ante for its return.

Music by the Marina, a one-day outdoor event, will be showcasing local talent from 11am until 4pm this Saturday on the banks of the Tyne. Part of NE1’s Summer in the City programme, it has been planned by the company with the help of HMV Newcastle and the result is a line-up that reflects a range of musical styles, from folk to rock and dance.

There will be five performances in all on August 17 on a stage set up at Urban Garden near Newcastle City Marina and they come courtesy of Lauren Amore who will be serving up a pop set from 11am; Sunderland's punk and folk outfit Torn Apart By Lisa who will follow up at noon; DJ Louis Chrisp at 1pm; Gateshead four-piece indie rockers Spilt Milk at 2pm and then former X Factor contestant Geoff Mull with his hour-long set at 3pm.

• Read more: North East music festivals still to come this summer with tickets still available

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Singer-songwriter Geoff said he can't wait to take part and share some of his music, adding: “This is such an amazing opportunity for me and my band to perform to a home crowd in one of Newcastle’s most iconic locations on the banks of the Tyne."

Rachel Barlow, head of marketing and events at NE1, said this year's event will be "bigger and better" and thanked HMV for "helping to identify and secure artists". “We’re delighted to build on the success of last year’s Music by the Marina event and bring music back to the Quayside," she said.

"We can’t wait for people to hear the line-up and enjoy the free music. It’s set to be a great showcase of some fabulous North East musical talent.”