Following the massive success of the annual Bands on the Beacon event, and the fun that was The Bandstand Marathon in 2012 and the Arboretum Big Gig of last year, Walsall’s parks team are really pushing the boat out for live music and events this year.
To that end, Arboretum Ranger and top bloke Mark Hopson has been in touch. Mark is a great music fan, and is really enthusiastic about the park he works in too, and there’s a gig coming up very soon that needs some acts to really make if fly.
Mark asked:
Hi Bob,
Here’s a little blurb, I don’t have any pics yet our print room are still putting together the poster/flyers.
Walsall Arboretum’s Environment Day requires bands and musicians! We are looking for Folk, roots, acoustic performers to perform on our stage with sound engineer on Saturday 7th June. This is the second year we have held this event but a first with the music stage, also on the day will be craft stalls, farmer’s market, seminar marquee with guest speakers and lots of activities for the public to enjoy.
If there are any crafty people out there we still have spaces left for stalls so please get in touch to book a pitch.
Bands and musicians interested in playing on the day should contact me, Mark Hopson by sending links to their work to me by email on HopsonM@walsall.gov.uk or via facebook.
For a chat phone 07843 501522.
Thanks for your help with this
Regards,
Mark HopsonArboretum Park Ranger
Parks.
Clean And Green Services.
Clocktower,
Lichfield street,
Walsall.
Email – HopsonM@walsall.gov.uk
Phone – 07843 501522
This sounds like it’s going to be an excellent day out – and if you’re a local band, what better chance to spread your music to a wide and diverse audience could there be? Please, do contact Mark if you’re interested.
I wish everyone involved in this project all the best.

The refurbished Arboretum is looking great – and the bandstand is a wonderful spot to catch live music, for folk of all ages.