Acoustic Connections are back and bringing together some of the best local bands and musicians to perform for you in our beautiful gardens. So, make the most of your summer and join us for an afternoon of great live music.
Gigs in the Garden are intimate, outdoor live music events with a line up of up to 4 different artists on each date. Expect a mixture of chilled out and lively beats from folk to jazz, with a few surprises thrown in.
Gigs in the Garden take place on Sunday 17 May, Sunday 21 June, and Sunday 19 July.
Tickets: £7 per adult in advance / £8 on the door. Under 16's are free but still need a ticket.
Scroll down for tickets ⬇️
Doors open at 12pm, performances start at 12.30pm and close at 3.30pm. Last entry for ticket holders is 2.45pm
Bring your own seating, and picnics are welcome. Food and refreshments will also be available to purchase. Only assistance dogs are permitted in the museum gardens.
The line up for this year's events will be advertised soon, so watch this space.
Gigs in the Garden are in collaboration with Acoustic Connections Events.
May Line Up -
Lilly Mae - 12.30 to 1.10pm
Lilly Mae is a dynamic performer who has been immersed in the world of performing arts since 2019. Recently graduating with a degree in Performing Arts, she has honed her craft in acting, singing, and movement. Lilly's powerful and versatile voice has been a standout feature in her performances, captivating audiences and leaving a lasting impression. Her training has equipped her with the skills and confidence to take on diverse roles across theatre and musical productions. Now stepping into the professional arena, LillY is eager to bring her passion and talent to new projects and collaborations.
Check out Lilly Mae on Instagram and Facebook
Bradley Cronk- 1.20pm to 2pm
Bradley Cronk is a solo singer-songwriter blending the grit of rock with the soul of blues and the storytelling of country. Based in the South, he’s recently begun the steady building of a loyal audience through high-energy live shows and heartfelt performances. With new demos now hitting streaming services, Bradley is taking his sound on the road, gigging across the region to connect with fans and grow his support base
Check out Bradley Cronk on Instagram and Facebook
Coosticks Duo - 2.10pm to 2.50pm
Sometimes a full band, sometimes a solo act, Coosticks bring their ever-evolving sound to Gigs in the Gardens 2026 as a captivating duo. Blending heartfelt original songs with a selection of catchy and unexpected covers, their performances are full of warmth, charm, and musical surprises that will have you smiling and singing along.
Check out Coosticks Duo on Instagram and Facebook
George Wilding 3pm to 3.40pm
George Wilding grew up in a stone circle and has stood out from the crowd, hopping genres and creating new sounds, ever since. His troubadoric-natured songs have been described as ‘Kinks-esque psychedelic folk’, ‘shambient Britrock’ and ‘beat-poet penned pop anthems’. Along the way, he’s supported Newton Faulkner, The Levellers, Toploader, The Hoosiers, Flyte, Scouting For Girls and many more. Notable radio plays include BBC Intro, Radio 2 and 6 Music. His debut album will be released in 2026.
Check out George Wilding on Instagram and Facebook
June [Father's Day] Line Up -
Kathryn Holt - 12.30pm to 1.20pm
Kathryn's voice draws you in with its timeless quality, natural and raw tone. As an accomplished musician, Kathryn plays both acoustic guitar and keyboard, demonstrating versatility in her style and musical performance. Since playing in bands as a teenager, Kathryn has developed her solo performance and songwriting style. With influences from folk and blues musicians, her songs are relatable and empowering, sharing experiences of life, love and dreams. Her songs resonate with people from all walks and stages of life, with curiously beautiful melodies that will be etched in your memory.
Check out Kathryn Holt on Instagram and Facebook
Nia Nicholles - 1.20pm to 2pm
Awarded Best Solo Artist and Best Songwriter at the Dorset Original Music Awards, Nia has built a reputation as powerful as her voice. Her standout track “Exes” was named BBC Introducing Track of the Year 2023, earning airplay across BBC Kent, BBC Solent, and BBC Wales. With much of her music recorded in Nashville, Nia’s sound has gained international attention. In 2024, she became the first British artist invited to perform at Texas’ In A Jam Down By The River Festival. Her single “I’m A Marionette” recently.
Check out Nia Nicholles on Instagram and Facebook
See you at 8 - 2.10pm to 2.50pm
See you at Eight Consisting of Amy, Paul and James bring a delightful acoustic sound to the stage, offering a mellow and engaging afternoon performance that reimagines classic songs with a fresh twist. Known for their unexpected vocal mashups and beautifully tight harmonies, the trio create a captivating, feel-good atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxed midday escape. Their performances are both soothing and uplifting, making them an ideal soundtrack for a laid-back afternoon break.
Check out See you at 8 on Instagram
Pluggin Dave - 3pm to 3.30pm
Pluggin Dave is a singer/songwriter from Bournemouth whose music blends rock and punk-inspired progressions with melodic choruses and intricate verses. Drawing influence from alternative hip hop, rap, and spoken word, his lyrics often take on a confessional, stream-of-consciousness style that feels raw and real. Known for his high-energy live performances, Pluggin Dave delivers rhythmic, engaging sets full of catchy melodies - whether he’s performing originals or re-imagining covers. His shows are as dynamic as his sound: honest, powerful, and impossible to ignore.
Check out Pluggin Dave on Instagram and Facebook
July Line Up -
Lottie Marie - 12.30pm to 1.10pm
Lottie is a passionate Musical Theatre performer with over five years of stage experience, combining singing, acting, and dance to create performances that are engaging, memorable, and full of heart. From theatre shows to headlining at local festivals and performing regularly at showcases, she thrives on connecting with audiences, delivering each number with energy, emotion, and a genuine love for entertaining. From timeless classics to modern hits, Lottie blends technical skill with natural charisma and stage presence, ensuring every performance leaves a mark. Always evolving as a performer, she embraces new challenges and shares the joy of performing in every moment. She is one not to be missed for this event.
Check out Lottie Marie on Facebook and Instagram
Tom Power - 1.20pm to 2pm
Tom Power is a local singer-songwriter who has been writing and performing his own acoustic music for over fifteen years. Taking inspiration from the world around him, Tom crafts songs around themes of nature, growth and everyday life. His music draws upon folk, pop and soft-rock influences, which he combines with his own reflective twist to explore a range of topics and emotions.
Check out Tom Power on Instagram and You Tube
Emeris Acoustic - 2.10pm to 2.50pm
Emeris are an Acoustic Duo, made up of best friends Emmy and Luke. They bring a unique blend of heartfelt vocals and rich acoustic melodies to every performance. Whether it’s an intimate wedding, a lively birthday celebration, or a special event, they create the perfect atmosphere with their versatile repertoire. From timeless classics to modern hits, they tailor their set list to fit any occasion, ensuring an unforgettable musical experience
Check out Emeris on Instagram and Facebook
Rob Clamp -3pm to 3.40pm
Having supported the likes of; Frank Turner, James Walsh (Starsailor) and The Bluetones, Rob Clamp is making a name for himself as a dynamic and captivating performer. Hailing from Southampton, Rob has been featured on BBC introducing, has won the highly regarded ‘Purbeck Rising 2022’ imprinting himself onto the UK folk scene, and won the ‘Sofia International Singer Songwriter Festival 2022’ in Bulgaria. Heavily influenced by the likes of; Ben Howard, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and Bruce Springsteen - Rob’s music is filled with real life experiences, performed in his own compelling storytelling style, with acoustic guitar accompanied by a variation of foot percussion. Recent years have been eventful for Rob, selling out numerous shows across the South of England and Germany. His debut album ‘Lost Soul’ was released in 2024 featuring his longstanding supporting band, ‘The Ashmen’.
Check out Rob Clamp on Instagram and Facebook
