A visit to the Isle of Wight without sampling some of its live entertainment would be like visiting Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. Music is an integral part of Island culture and whether you’re young or old, dig folk or rock, there’s so much happening it would be impossible to list it all here. So, to whet your appetite, here’s a taster. In the heart of Ryde on Lind Street, you’ll find Ryde Theatre (01983 568099), the Island’s “premier live music venue” offering an eclectic mix of international, national and local bands, and musicians performing throughout the year.

For the funkster in you, take yourself to one of the hugely acclaimed Hipshaker nights (www.hipshaker.co.uk) showcasing 1960s soul, R&B and Motown. These nights are never a disappointment, and are at their best during the Isle of Wight Scooter Rally (August Bank Holiday).

Venture further into Ryde, and you’ll come across the High Park Tavern (01983 562841), which, after a recent change of ownership and long awaited facelift, has quickly become a musos’ nest by presenting live sessions throughout the year. From open jam nights to live bands, you’ll receive a warm welcome and great entertainment. An alternative evening could take you to an Acoustics at the Altar gig (01983 611913) at St John’s, a platform for some of the country’s most celebrated roots musicians.

Clubbers are well catered for, with The Balcony (01983 617070) nightclub in the old pavilion on Ryde Esplanade, and Colonel Bogeys (01983 405320) in Sandown—both places to be if you’re looking for that inimitable nightclub feel. They offer everything from drum and bass to disco, with various special offers to attract the younger crowd (18-25s). Make sure you check each venue’s dress code and always carry photo ID.

The Piano Bar at Holliers Hotel (01983 862764), in Shanklin, is much more than its name suggests. Yes, there are ivory tinkling sessions, but there’s also a happy smattering of tribute bands, DJs and live local music too.

There has always been a good old-fashioned spirit of fellowship in the Island’s folk-music circuit, and established get-togethers are almost a daily event, with folk sessions, open-mic offerings and traditional Irish nights aplenty. Try and catch one of the many Vaguely Sunny gigs, or if you’ve packed your fiddle or guitar, join in at any of the following: The Old Stag Inn, Newport; The Portland, Gurnard; The Yarbridge Inn, Brading; Bob’s House, Blackwater; The Buddle Inn, St Lawrence, and The Sun Inn, Calbourne.

Then, of course, there are the Island’s famous festivals. The Isle of Wight Festival and Bestival are the two most celebrated annual Island music events, each award-winning (Best Major Festival and Best Medium-Sized Festival respectively from the 2007 UK Festival Awards). Both are set to return in 2008 amid a buzz of anticipation for headlining acts to top last year’s. So far the Kaiser Chiefs, Sex Pistols and The Police have been signed up to headline the IoW Festival. www.isleofwightfestival.com and www.bestival.net.

The weekend of 11 to 13 April welcomes the Isle of Wight International Jazz Festival in Ventnor, which sees the town come to life and the world’s best jazz musicians swing into spring. www.iowjazzfestival.co.uk.

Last, and by no means least, the Isle of Wight Folk and Blues Festival returns for its second year from 19 to 21 September. This newest addition to the Island festival roster is a marvellous finale to an incredible music-filled season. For further information visit www.iowfolkblues.co.uk.

Check local press for further information on these and the many other venues offering live music and entertainment all over the Island. CORA WADE

Where to stay...

The Royal Hotel (01983 852186), in Ventnor, offers Jazz Weekend Packages, as does Ventnor Towers Hotel (01983 852277). Camping is available at Bestival and the Isle of Wight Festival.

Eating out...

Liberty’s Café Bar (01983 811007) on Union Street has a mouthwatering menu and wonderful laid-back vibe with its Sunday acoustic sessions throughout the summer. The festivals are all fully stocked with stalls and bars offering tasty international and local food.

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