Oldham has a rich heritage of music spanning back to the 18th century. From famous composers, to operatic divas, from folk groups to pop groups the list is endless. Here are just a few of the names: William Walton the composer; the folk group Oldham Tinkers; organist and keyboard player Wayne Marshall; the opera singer Eva Turner; Mark Owen from Take That; the group Inspiral Carpets; and British house and techno record producer and DJ, Carl Cox.
Over the years Oldham has also been a hot-bed of local music-making such as the Oldham Symphony Orchestra, Oldham Amateur Operatic Society, and various local choirs, brass bands, and not forgetting the legendary Oldham Music Service based in the Lyceum Building.
Perhaps the most famous musical event to have occurred in Oldham is the appearance of The Beatles on 12 February 1963 at the Astoria Ballroom, now known as the Gaumont on the corner of Union Street and King Street. Nearly 2,000 teenagers ‘stormed’ Oldham’s Astoria Ballroom to see the group. However, only 800 were admitted.
Watch this clip of The Beatles at the Astoria.
We'd love to hear your favourite musical memories from Oldham. Perhaps it was a concert, a pub gig, a DJ set or a musical? Share your stories with us via our social media @galleryoldham
What's involved?
Be inspired by our musical memories and share your stories of music in Oldham. We can't wait to hear your best Oldham musical moments!
Why get involved?
It's a great way to share memories and help us build up our local studies and archives collections.
How to get involved?
Step 1: Log in to your Take part account
Step 2: Accept the challenge so that we know you are taking part!
Step 3: Share your memories and stories with us via our social media @galleryoldham
Ideal Skills
- Archiving
- Social Media
Ideal Interest
- Archiving