Book explores Old Town music scene

All the more surprising therefore that no one to date has got around to writing an introductory guide to this renowned and vibrant music scene.

Now local author Sean O’Shea has filled the gap by coming up with a new book that has its first official launch this Saturday (July 23) at the White Rock Hotel at 6.30pm.

The book is titled Hastings Old Town Music Scene.

Sean O’Shea’s beautifully designed, photo packed compendium is both informative and entertaining.

It illustrates and celebrates the Old Town’s distinctive music culture and pub life, comprises in depth interviews with local musicians and singers, a comprehensive list of music venues, and a calendar of annual music related events and festivals.

The compilation also encompasses a variety of genres including folk, bluegrass, klezmer, festi-funk and blues, as well as classical and jazz.

Finally, on the rear cover, there is a very convenient map for finding your way around the numerous pubs and venues.

Though the selection is varied it doesn’t claim to include all the many talented musicians here – that would require a number of volumes. Sean says to look out for Hastings Old Town Music Scene Book Two.

Sean O’Shea lives in Hastings and is a regular contributor to Hastings Online Times (HOT), www.hastingsonlinetimes.co.uk.

This is an independent, online journal run by volunteers, which aims to celebrate the diverse character of the town and contribute to its cultural, social and economic development.

The book is a must for music lovers and makes an ideal gift or treasured memento of a visit to the historic Old Town.

It will be a valued guide to the local music scene for many years to come.

Sean commented: “In chronicling this I hope that I have done something to make the creative life of the Old Town more visible.”

The book is for sale at the Tourist Information Centre, Aquila House, 2 Breeds Place, Hastings Tel: 01424 451111, www.visit1066country.com, and at other local outlets.

You can also order copies online at, www.hastingspress.co.uk. For further information contact: [email protected].

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1 Make our website your homepage at www.hastingsobserver.co.uk

2 Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/hastingsobserver

3 Follow us on Twitter @HastingsObs

4 Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

The Hastings Observer - always the first with your local news.

Be part of it.