Sounds of Our City

Sounds of Our City takes visitors on a journey through the musical stories of Leeds. Starting with how we first encounter music at home and school, we look at how the different musical styles and places of Leeds interact.

See some of the fascinating instruments and sound equipment made in Leeds. Explore the different venues associated with music in the city over the past 200 years. And relive some of the city’s most iconic performances through the memorabilia on display.

Join us for a range of talks, events and workshops inspired by the exhibition. We’ve picked out some highlights below:

Family Event: You’re welcome here kind stranger

14 Mar, 10.30 – 11.30am

Drop in, Museum admission applies

Discover the history of traditional Irish Music in Leeds from 1955 to present day. A family-friendly workshop for all ages.

Study Day: Forgotten Women Composers with Kitty Ross

20 Mar, 11am – 3pm

£12pp inc lunch, booking required

Join our Curator of Leeds and Social History for an enlightening day as we highlight some lesser known female composers. Delve into our collections and enjoy lunch in the Gatehouse Café.

Talk: Parklife: ‘When Roundhay went Pop’, with Dr Peter Mills

22 Apr, 2.45 – 3.45pm

£5.45pp, booking required

Join Dr Peter Mills as he explores Roundhay Park’s part in live music through personal recollections, photos and objects including gig tickets and programmes.

Talk: Damaged Goods: Leeds and post-punk in the 1970s

23 Sept, 2.45 – 3.45pm

£5.45pp, booking required

Join Antony Ramm of the Leeds Central Library for a talk exploring Leeds in the turbulent but thrillingly creative 1970s, when bands such as Gang of Four and Delta 5 fashioned sounds mining the extremes of politics, art and culture.

Sounds of Our City Talk and Tour for Groups

We’re offering exclusive guided tours of the exhibition for groups. Hear the stories behind some of our star objects and see some that didn’t make it into the display. Get in touch with us by calling 0113 378 4079 or emailing [email protected].