If you’ve ever dreamed of playing your favourite records to a crowd, this weekend is your chance.
Prospecting for Vinyl, a unique fundraising event for Prospect Hospice, takes place on Saturday 13 September (12–4pm) at Prospect Books & Media, Victoria Road.
The concept is simple: dig through Prospect’s stock, pick up to five tracks, buy them, and then play them live for the audience. Equipment is provided — and no DJ experience is necessary.
The event is organised by Chris Mawdsley, SEN teacher by day and founder of Magic Roundabout Records by night.
Chris said, “It’s completely non-judgemental — all types of music are welcome, from dance to folk to jazz to spoken word. There’s no such thing as a bad record if you love it. The whole idea is to bring people together through music, spark conversations and maybe even start new collections.”
Anyone nervous about playing can have Chris step in to spin their chosen tracks. A pop-up bar will also be open, giving supporters the chance to enjoy the music with a drink while raising money for the hospice.
Even Prospect Hospice’s Chief Executive, Jeremy Lune, has signed up to play a slot.
Jeremy said, “We’re really excited about this event. It’s a fun way for people to explore our stock and raise vital funds. With just 18% of our £10.5 million running costs funded by the government, community fundraising events like this are crucial to helping us continue our care.”
The event also highlights how affordable record collecting can be, with vinyl at Prospect starting from as little as 50p. Attendees are encouraged to bring along record donations too.
Prospecting for Vinyl is part of the Swindon Shuffle, the town’s original music festival, which runs from Thursday 11 – Sunday 14 September, featuring more than 60 acts across seven Old Town venues.
Entry is free, with donations encouraged for Prospect Hospice. To book a playing slot, contact Magic Roundabout Records on Facebook or Instagram, or turn up on the day.
