By Isle of Wight Observer
A new museum celebrating the Island’s rich musical heritage has officially opened in Newport.
The Wight Music Experience, based on the upper floor of Triple A Records in St James’ Street, features thousands of exhibits drawn from decades of Island music history, from the world-famous Isle of Wight Festivals of the late 1960s and early ’70s, through to contemporary chart successes such as Wet Leg and Coach Party.
The museum was officially opened by Ray Foulk, co-promoter of the legendary 1968, 1969 and 1970 festivals that brought Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Leonard Cohen, The Doors and others to Island stages. Ray also screened rare footage from the 1970 festival, spoke of the challenges his family faced in staging it, and signed copies of his book, The Last Great Event.
Displays include festival memorabilia such as posters, t-shirts, vinyl records, magazines and even a sleeping bag from 1970, alongside sheet music dating back to the Victorian era. More recent Island events such as Bestival, Rhythm-tree and Postfest also feature prominently.
Opening night visitors included Isle of Wight MP, Richard Quigley, local musicians, and guests who enjoyed acoustic performances of festival classics by Jess Leigh Ong and Alex Watson.
Jonathan Bacon, co-founder of the museum, said: “The proper archiving and display of the wealth of Island music history is long overdue. By celebrating our past, we hope to inspire future generations of musicians.”
The museum is open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm, with regular live music and special events planned.
Isle of Wight Observer 
Mal Butler