MORE than 1,000 artists from 170 acts performing in 21 unusual spaces around the city.

Southampton’s celebrated Music in the City is back for its ninth outing next month.

Preparations are well under way for the October 8 event, which celebrates the diverse range of musical talent from the city and further afield.

From rock to jazz, classical to Americana and folk to blues, tens of thousands of music lovers will flock to Southampton once again to see some of their favourite musicians in action.

From 800 year old historic buildings to the city’s brand new performance space set in the heart of the old walls as part of WestQuay, the sound of live music will emanate from every corner of Southampton.

X Factor favourite Michael Rice will star in the Marlands showcase laid on by talent scout, performance coach and mentor Rosalind Fountain. He wowed audiences with a Whitney Houston track in his audition, has performed on the same bill as Ed Sheeran, Clean Bandit, Ella Eyre and Jess Glynne and will take a break from recording in LA to perform at Music in the City.

The iconic Bargate will host the likes of TheRealRaj, Central Hall Community Gospel Choir and Fiddler on the Hoof.

The Bee Hive, Manoir Dreams, Neko Roshi and The Chateau Bateau Band will perform aboard SS Shieldhall, Britain’s largest working steamship.

Other highlights include Zen Juddhism in the historic Lancaster Vault, an hour long set from Rock Choir at WestQuay South and Brazilian samba reggae troupe Batala in their regular slot outside Holyrood Church.

Organiser Linda Norris told the Daily Echo:: “It’s a real treat of a day and I have so many favourites from over the years , most of which are back once again this year.

“I always make a point of catching some of Batala. I love them, they’re a definite favourite. They really get everybody going and really draw the crowd in. I also particularly like some of the bands playing WestQuay this year; Soulcatcher,s, PS Perrystone Hill, Ken Wood and the Mixers and The Burns Unit.

“A big thank you to all our wonderful musicians for donating both their talent and time for you, their audience.”

Vintage buses will ferry passengers on two routes around the city.

The following day, ,Sunday October 8, Southampton Art Gallery will also open its doors as part of the Music in the City celebrations. Enjoy music from the likes of Flautissimo, Southampton Choral Society and the City of Southampton Orchestra Strings.

A full Muisc in the City programme will be printed in the Daily Echo on Friday October 6.

For details, visit musicinthecitysouthampton.org