There’s an embarrassment of riches across the Northern music scene in May.
Sometimes we all need a bit of orchestral music to lose ourselves in, and what better way to do it than at Sage Gateshead on May 8. Let Royal Northern Sinfonia sweep you off your feet with Classic FM at the Movies: John Barry, featuring Barry’s most evocative and picturesque scores, from the menace and power of Zulu to the expanse and romance of Dances with Wolves and, of course, James Bond.
The Liverpool Philharmonic Celebrates 175 years on May 15, so make sure to get yourself along to Royal Liverpool Philharmonic for some free performances where an ensemble of musicians from the Orchestra will perform music which might have been heard by concert-goers in the 1840s – and there’s also an opportunity for afternoon tea!
Some old favourites will be re-uniting this month to the delight of their fans, including S Club 7 on May 21 at Motorpoint Arena Sheffield, Chas and Dave at O2 Academy Liverpool on May 25 and Take That at Manchester Arena from May 21 – June 18. 
Rock/Alternative fans looking for something new will enjoy Black Rivers. After supporting Elbow and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, they will play an intimate show at Manchester’s Band on the Wall on May 15. Also, legend Paul McCartney will be at Liverpool Echo Arena on May 28 and Mark Knopfler will be at Metro Radio Arena on May 20.
Up for a dance? Then hip hop sensation People Under The Stairs will be at Kazimier Liverpool on May 14 and Dancefloor pop artist Indiana will be at Manchester Academy on May 21.
If you’re in need of reliable and recognisable entertainment then look no further than John Barrowman (best known for his role in Doctor Who) who is embarking on his first full UK tour in four years, singing big hits such as Mandy and You Raise Me Up, and will be stopping off at Blackpool Winter Gardens on May 29. Another old faithful is one of America’s living legends who brought us the song American Pie, Don McLean, who will be at The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester on May 25.
Finally, if you’re searching for a bit of soul, Grammy nominated singer-songwriter, Beth Hart will be Leeds Academy on May 9.
Main image: Band on the Wall
If you would like your band or venue included in next month’s preview send us your links, blogs and press releases to stephaniealderson@northernsoul.me.uk
