Monmouth & Music

This page is in progress …

Monmouth has a rich musical history. Most rock fans will know it as the place where Queen recorded ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ at the world famous Rockfield Studios (the first residential recording studio in the world). Classical fans may know that the internationally renowned classical label, Nimbus Records is based here at Wyastone Leys.

Today Monmouth is home to many voluntary and community music groups, professional musicians, and music fans.

For more information, check out the links below and let us know if you have others to add.

Places
Rockfield Studios
Rock Legends at Rockfield – book by local writer and music expert Jeff Collins
Nimbus Records and Wyastone Concert Hall
Queen’s Head, Monmouth – jazz venue
Rockfield Country Music Festival
Monnow Valley Studios

TV
We even have our own TV station in Monmouth, where you can find out more about local bands and watch a film about Rockfield Studios
MonTV

Organisations
Fancy making music yourself? Find out more about these local groups or set one up yourself!
Monmouth Music Theatre
Monmouth Brass Band
Monmouth Choral Society
Monmouth Concert Orchestra
Merlin Music Society – presents live classical concerts at the Blake Theatre

People
Monmouth’s been home to many well-known musicians including Dave Edmunds, Kermit from Black Grape … and Robert Plant lived not far away at one time. It’s also home to composer/producer Garry Hughes, of Bombay Dub Orchestra, to the Martinez brothers, Ray (various bands) and Paul (various, and Robert Plant Band). Geoff Downes is also spotted here from time to time (Buggles, Asia, Yes) – he lives down the road in Raglan.

With two residential recording studios close by (Rockfield, and Monnow Valley) it isn’t unusual to spot the odd band or musician at one of Monmouth’s many pubs or restaurants or out and about down Monnow Street.

Tell us who you’ve spotted by adding a comment below.