About Us

Musicport is a not for profit community business set up in 2000 to provide live music opportunities through performance and education in the Whitby area of North Yorkshire. Since then the festival has grown year on year and in 2008 moves to Bridlington Spa which has the space and facilities that we need to ensure the festivals development in future years.   Jim McLaughlin Sidi Goma @ Musicport (photo: Kev Howard) Born in Clapham, South London and based in Whitby since 1989 Jim came late to music as a profession (... previously a social worker, a gardener  a surveyor and amateur musician ! ) he was inspired by his work with musicians from many cultures when working as a promoter programming music at The Old Chapel, Robin Hood's Bay. Since Musicport's inception in 2000 in addition to 8 festivals (with over 450 acts appearing) he has also worked on a regular programme of events in Whitby under The Compass Club banner.   Artists who have appeared at Musicport Festival include... Rachid Taha, The Buena Vista Social Club presents Caichito Lopez, Manuel Galban etc, Courtney Pine, Varttina,  Ustad Mahwash & Ensemble Kaboul, Mostar Sevdah Reunion, Misty In Roots, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Mory Kanté, Kékélé, Transglobal Underground,Daby Touré, Susheela Raman, Osibisa, Natacha Atlas, Labi Siffre, Los De Abajo, Chumbawamba, Bob Brozman,Kaushiki, Martin Simpson,Vera Bila,Tavin Singh,Kate & Anna McGarrigle, Jean "Binta" Breeze, Nuru Kane & The Bayefall Gnawa...     Artists who have appeared at The Compass Club include... Midge Ure, The Ukrainians, Asere, Hazel O'Connor, Glen Tilbrook, Martin Stephenson, Jah Wobble & The Invaders Of The Heart, Ellika & Solo, Dylan Howe's Five Corners, Brian Appleton, Daby Balde, Go-Lem System, Waterson Carthy, Sharon Shannon Band, Dexter Ardoin & The Creole Ramblers, Mabulu, Arthur Brown, Maalstroom ...