Maunders At Freight Island

This is the one we build up to all year.

Maunders School of Popular Music’s Summer Gig at Freight Island is our biggest showcase — a proper live gig in a proper Manchester venue, with our students stepping up and owning the stage. Expect a packed-out night of pop and rock bangers, huge smiles, a few “I can’t believe they just did that” moments, and the kind of atmosphere you only get when a crowd is genuinely behind the performers.

Freight Island is the perfect backdrop: nestled in the heart of Depot Mayfield, just behind Manchester Piccadilly station, surrounded by that legendary industrial architecture — and buzzing with food, drink, and entertainment. It’s multi-vendor, multi-vibe, and made for big nights out. Come early, get stuck into the food and drinks, and make a full evening of it.

Whether you’re a parent, friend, student, or just someone who loves live music — this gig is about community, confidence, and celebrating what happens when people back themselves and get on stage.