Lancaster University is set to play a key role in this year’s Lancaster Music Festival (LMF) through a creative partnership that brings the campus and the community together.

As part of a special Campus in the City pop-up, the University will host a range of free interactive, music-themed events and workshops from 10-13 October.

Bringing a unique University twist, Campus in the City pop-up activities include exploring a ‘jukebox in the womb’, a virtual reality experience developed by the Psychology Department and the ISS Innovation Hub, which simulates how a baby hears music in the womb. Local musicians like Uptown Monotones and Massive Wagons contribute to this immersive experience.

There’s also an opportunity to experience a cochlear implant simulator, which allows users to simulate hearing loss and then apply a cochlear implant to understand the difference they make.

And another VR experience - Imagination Cave – which invites users to listen to a piece of music and then describe an image inspired by that music. This is created using AI and displayed in a virtual gallery.

A Beatbox Ultrasound workshop will explore the link between beatboxing and medical imaging, there’s Flamenco workshops and the University’s Confucius Institute will offer several activities, including one on the rhythms of Chinese music, where participants can play traditional instruments and join a lively parade.

Lancaster Music Festival takes place across Lancaster, with the Campus in the City pop-up held at The Storey and The Gregson, offering something for everyone from families to music enthusiasts. No need to book and all University activities are free.

Another highlight is a dedicated LMF stage in Alexandra Square, University campus, from 7pm on Saturday on 12 October. The stage will feature performances from a variety of artists, adding to the lively atmosphere of the weekend’s festivities. No need to book for this, and it’s free.

The campus stage is just one of more than 400 performances taking place, with 300-plus artists contributing to this award-winning festival.

Lancaster University is proud to be working in partnership with LMF, bringing our research to life and making sure that both the city and the campus are alive with music, learning, and creativity.

For more details on the festival and its events, visit the LMF website.

iLancaster app - View the LMF programme on iLancaster. See the event listings, details of the venues, artists and create your own schedule with notifications before gigs start, including maps and directions. Brought to you by the ISS Innovation Hub.