SonOrbitUs, Sunderland Music City’s year-long musical portrait of the city, comes to a close with a free public event at The Exchange on Floor 1 of Culture House Sunderland, Keel Square, on Saturday 17 October 2026.

The day begins with an improvisation workshop led by Faye McCallman from 11am–1pm. Musicians of all abilities are welcome to take part, with a range of instruments available on the day.

After a break, the event continues from 2pm–5pm with a collective improvised performance introduced by SonOrbitUs producer Peter Brewis. Sunderland residents can join the final composition or simply watch and listen as the project reaches the end of its 365-day run and switches off at 5pm.

SonOrbitUs was commissioned by Sunderland Music City and funded by Arts Council England. Created by Peter Brewis, Ed Carter and Tim Shaw, with research and technical input from Becky Allen, the project combines recordings from around Sunderland with live city data to create music that changes with the city.

Both sessions are free. Advance booking is encouraged, although walk-ins will be welcomed where capacity allows.

Workshop: 11am–1pm
Closing performance: 2pm–5pm
Venue: The Exchange, Floor 1, Culture House Sunderland, Keel Square
Date: Saturday 17 October 2026