Songbirds and Rock ‘n’ Roll stars delight in Didsbury

The sound of melodic finger-picking, strumming and singing filled the air at Fletcher Moss Gardens in South Manchester on Sunday 20 July for the annual Didsbury Guitar Trail. The weather didn’t dampen spirits as the local community turned out to enjoy some live music and enter the popular raffle for a chance to win their own acoustic guitar.

With rain forecasted and one of the hotly anticipated Oasis comeback shows taking place in Manchester on the same day, the team really had to Roll With It but pulled off another excellent day.

Now in its 16th year, this much-loved local event continues to grow as a grassroots initiative led by volunteers and local musicians, featuring a diverse programme of music throughout the day. Seasoned guitarists and passionate amateurs alike take their places in the alpine gardens to create a truly unique walking trail for visitors, before gathering on the terrace for acts on the main stage in the afternoon.

At the heart of the event is Philip Dylak, a local musician turned organiser who has been involved in every aspect of the event over the years. “I’ve done everything in the Didsbury Guitar Trail,” Philip says. “I started as a performer, then played the main stage and now I help organise the whole thing. It’s grown into something really special.”

What sets this event apart is its authenticity and inclusive spirit. “You hear someone playing a song you like and think, I like that, I’ll donate money to the charity. I don’t know of anybody else doing anything quite like it,” Philip explains.

Among the musicians supporting the event year after year is Chris Layhe, founding member and bass player of Liverpool band The Icicle Works, who had hits in the 1980s. Chris has a long association with Music in Hospitals & Care, having been both a musician and supporter over the years.

“Music has an incredible way of uniting us, whether it’s on stage or in a hospital,” says Chris. “To bring that spirit out into the community at the Guitar Trail is a real privilege. You see people connect through music in a very genuine way and you’re helping a great cause at the same time.”

The Guitar Trail is a reminder of how community-led events can bring people together and make a real difference. “It’s not dependent on the internet,” says Philip. “You can leave your phone at home and have a good old fashioned day out. The event is very safe, very enjoyable, and suitable for all ages. It’s a chance to hear a wide range of music in a beautiful location, and to support a charity doing important work.”

We are so grateful to the dedicated organisers of this fantastic community event and thrilled to have raised over £900 to help share the healing power of live music.

If you are interested in hosting a community fundraising event, please visit mihc.org.uk/get-involved/fundraise to get ideas, download your free fundraising pack and find out how we can support you.