From saxophonist quartets in Northern Quarter’s favourite jazz bar to an open mic night under Oxford Road’s famous arches – here’s our rundown of the best free things happening across Manchester this week.

Open Mic Night | Thirsty Scholar | Tue 28 Mar | 7pm - 10pm

Liven up the working week this Tuesday as the fantastic lot behind the Thirsty Scholar will open their stages up to musicians, comedians, poets and all kinds of wonderful entertainers.

Stand-up comedians can be found upstairs in the famed Zombie Shack with music and poetry commencing in the downstairs bar.

Widely known as Manchester’s longest-running open mic night – going strong for a whole 23 years – be sure to rock up and support the local scene.

50 New Wakefield Street, Manchester M1 5NP, Tel: 0161 236 6071
In Conversation: Stephen Morris | The John Rylands Library | Thu 30 Mar | 6pm - 7.30pm

Make your way over to the famed Mancunian literary hub this Thursday for an evening of music, memories and culture led by Professor of Popular Culture, Jon Savage, and Stephen Morris, founding member of Joy Division and New Order, and post-punk percussionist extraordinaire.

Learn all about the iconic groups and hear from the man himself all about the music scene in the city back in its golden years.

150 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3EH, Tel: 0161 306 0555
Sam Lightwing Quartet | Matt and Phreds | Thu 30 Mar | 9pm - 12am

Head to Tib Street this Thursday for a late-night gig led by the brilliant Sam Lightwing Quartet.

The quartet will play three sets of music so get comfy and prepare to hear a mix of originals and music from their inspirations, including Chick Corea, Joshua Redman and Herbie Hancock.

With Latin, jazz, funk, blues and just about every other influence in between – what’s not to like?

64 Tib St, Manchester M4 1LW, Tel: 0161 273 5495
One Year Celebration | Station South | Fri 31 Mar | 3pm - late

The wonderful Levenshulme hub of community, coffee and all things cycling will be celebrating their 1st birthday this Friday from the afternoon till late.

Perfect for little ones celebrating half-term, there will be a family party until 6pm with free party games music and dancing with DJ Ryan M Hughes taking to the decks from then onwards. Also – there’s going to be a massive cake.

975- 977 Stockport Road, Manchester M19 3NP
Saxophone Orchestra Manchester in Concert | Festival Hall | Sun 2 Apr | 5pm - 6.30pm

Pull your weekend to a wholesome end at the fabulous Saxophone Orchestra event coming to Alderley Edge this Sunday evening.

The family-friendly concert will be a great way to kick back and listen to some stellar live music plus, for the second time this week, there will also be free cake for people attending the short and sweet early evening gig.

Talbot Road, Alderley Edge SK9 7HR, Tel: 01625 582150
Mon 27 Mar - Sun 2 Apr
Words:
Rhiannon Ingle
Published on:
Sun 26 Mar 2023