As part of IHEARTUTG, local promoters IMP put together a bill of unplugged musicians to perform for free in the gardens this afternoon. Proof that you don’t need much to bring them to life, just some imagination and the will to do something.
A number of artists played with my favourite being Les Pelicans who gave a short set of impassioned acoustic songs, led by Tim Courtneys soaring vocals. Living legend Alan Davidson opened the proceedings with a semi-unplugged set.
The most important thing though was the turnout, we weren’t disappointed. A crowd of perhaps 100 people turned up on an absolutely baltic Saturday afternoon, with a large number of others drifting through perhaps as they strolled along Union Terrace and were drawn in by the music. No alcoholics or junkies in sight. In fact the only disturbance was from my yappy little Westie when she noticed another dog down in the gardens, very embarrassing!
It was good to catch up with people who I hadn’t seen for a while and to discuss the campaign with like minded folks. It’s quite ridiculous when you stand under the Burns statue and look across the gardens, just how huge City Square would be. It’s an awesome(in the literal use) space, with so many issues which haven’t been addressed by the ACSEF team. The gardens as they stand looked in good shape today, a healthy crowd in them and snowdrops coming through the soil.
Also good to see a large amount of families in the crowd today, the facepainting corner seemed particularly busy. The gardens should be a family space, there for generations to enjoy and to cherish.
In related news, a compilation download was launched today featuring world famous local acts in honour of IHEARTUTG. All proceeds will go towards saving the gardens and you decide what you pay for it! Click the link to check it out: WeHeartUTG
Oh wow, David, this is great!! So glad it’s been recorded – what a brilliant space it truly is.
just goes to show the absolute inspiration and potential of the gardens
[...] Officer has also blogged about this subject with some excellent photos from the event. Add a Comment | Post this entry to: del.icio.us, [...]
Excellent post and a great set of photos from the event. I’ve just put together a small blog post about the event over on my site.
David your pictures are superb. Also many thanks for the lovely music. The clapping was loud despite the fact that everyone had on applause dampening woolly gloves !
[...] now (and you dinna mess wi’ squirrels). Oh, and in case you missed it, last Saturday saw a wee event in support of the gardens (check out this video of it by the supremely talented Adam Proctor) and there’s something [...]