Music On The Hill 2011 Great Fun For A Great Cause

Set in the heart of the south eastern countryside, on the hottest day of the year so far, a new, fairly small festival - Music On The Hill, opened its gates.

A family event, very much suited to both the younger and older members of the family. With such activities as; 'Nursery On The Hill' - a tent to cater for younger children under 8, 'Pampered Delights' face painting, 'Party Faces' henna tattoos and balloon modelling, 'Art of Mine' craft marquee and two enormous bouncy castles. These being only a few of the wide range of tents, marquees and stalls dotted around the venue to keep kids (and in turn adults) happy. Peppa Pig and the Andrex Puppy were casually wondering around all day, entertaining children. 

There was some incredible food, in an amazing variety; vegetarian and vegan stall, Hot Donut company, 'Naughty But Nice' confectionary, a bar and a grill, just to name a few.

There was an outstanding atmosphere, it was boiling hot, the sun didn't stop shinning and everyone there seemed to be having a wonderful, yet relaxing time. Children of all ages milled around, making friends and having a lot of fun, adults relaxed without the worry of their children children getting lost.

The stage was hosted by Stacey Solomon, the ditsy, yet very much loved X Factor contestant and 'Queen of the Jungle', who, with the help of her co-host Dave Berry, gave a humourous, sweet and exciting deliverance throughout the day.

A huge variety of bands played throughout the day, all with outstanding talent and performance, ranging from local choirs and bands, to nationally famous bands and celebrities. Each gave something different to the next and really went all out for it. The bands that really stuck out were;

City Stereo, a british pop-punk band who have recently released their first album, played an energetic and catchy set, involving much audience participation. With their pop-sounding lead singer and rock band, they really got the crowd going.

Ben Mills, the X Factor contestant, along with a talented band, provided a laid-back set, playing a selection of his own songs and covers, the crowd enjoyed well-known classics such as 'aerosmith - I don't wanna miss a thing', he then later appeared as 'Simply Rod' and revved up the crowd with well known hits.

Björn Again were a lot of fun, they got the whole audience dancing to the ABBA numbers, well-known to both the younger and older members. They gave an amazing and unforgettable ending to the fun-filled day.

All the acts freely wandered around the venue before and after their sets, happily signing autographs, posing for photos and chatting. Adding to the friendly atmosphere that dominated the event.

However, the venue was in a field and during the hottest day of the year so far, with no shade, as you can imagine - it got very hot. It might be an idea to bring a parasol and plenty of suncream.

I would also say, that although the event was perfect for children, parents and even grandparents, it was possibly not so suited to teenagers, who did enjoy the younger bands such as; city and colour, some velvet morning and the battle of the bands winner, as well as Björn Again, between these acts, were not young enough to enjoy the activities for younger children and not old enough to recognise the ABC, Ben Mills' various covers and Rod hits.

On the whole, Music On The Hill was a fun-filled day for children and adults. The atmosphere was laid-back and chilled, with children running around, having faces painted, making friends and eating ice creams. Adults laying on rugs and sitting on chairs, soaking up the sun, sipping pimms, eating gorgeous food and listening to a range of very talented, yet fun and exciting musicians.

However, i personally think the best part of the day, was the fact that 100% of all the profits made at the festival go straight to Demelza Hospice Care for Children and The Children's Development Trust, who work with life limited children and provide vital care for them.

Music On The Hill is truly great fun and great music, for an even greater cause.