In a year filled with triumphs, 3 Days of Wonder has proven itself as a band on the rise, winning Devon’s Best New Act and the Wildcard Battle of the Bands in Exeter.
But for this talented, award-winning band, the accolades are great, yes, but their passion and drive are strongly built on giving back to the community that supports and recognises them.
That’s why they’re teaming up with the Music Venue Trust for a special fundraiser event to support grassroots venues across the UK.
The event will be held at one of the South West’s most treasured grassroots venues, the Barrel House Ballroom in Totnes, on Saturday, 26th April.
3 Days of Wonder will take the stage alongside local favourites Die Twice, Leonard and the Zombies and Poppyshow, making it a night that celebrates local talent and the spaces that help nurture it.
Team IM caught up with lead singer Luke Notman to learn more about the upcoming show and its meaning to the band.
IM: How does it feel to be able to give back to the grassroots music community through this fundraiser for the Music Venue Trust?
Luke: It feels satisfying to be able to contribute to the MVT, as we know that the funds will make a difference to the grassroots music scene locally and nationally. We’re also really delighted that we can include a number of excellent local bands and, of course, perform at the wonderful Barrel House Ballroom.
We are giving back with our time, energy and performance, which also feels great to do.
IM: What does grassroots music mean to you personally, and how has it shaped your journey as a musician?
Luke: Without grassroots music venues, there’s no real arena for original artists to perform and share their music. I’ve been really lucky to have played at the Barrel House Ballroom as a 15-year-old and the magic of this certainly has been part of my inspiration to write music to share with an audience.
Grassroots music venues also provide us with opportunities to watch and learn from those who are more experienced than ourselves, especially in intimate grassroots music venues.
IM: How do you think local music venues, like the Barrel House Ballroom, contribute to the growth and development of young musicians in the South West?
Luke: The Barrel House Ballroom allows musicians like us to grow in confidence and build our performance in front of supportive audiences. This might be through Open Mic evenings, band nights or as a support for more established acts.
As emerging artists, working with the Barrel House team of professional sound engineers who offer advice and musical guidance for live shows is also really important.
IM: What are you hoping to get out of the gig?
Luke: Ultimately, the gig is about raising funds, the MVT profile and the amazing grassroots music venues in the southwest.
Grassroots music venues are an essential part of our culture and we need to be shouting out about these venues. For us, that means giving our time and energy to put on a fundraiser.
Echoing 3 Days of Wonder
Grassroots venues like the Barrel House Ballroom are so more than just places to catch a gig. Undeniably, these spaces are the beating drum of local music scenes, providing emerging artists with their first stage to perform, experiment and of course connect with audiences.
Imagine the scene without such venues, many young musicians wouldn’t have the opportunities they need to develop their craft and start their musical careers.
The Music Venue Trust, which has been championing the cause of grassroots music venues since 2014, is vital in recognising the importance of these venues across the UK.
The trust ensures that venues like Exeter’s Cavern, Hull’s Adelphi, and London’s 100 Club are preserved, protected and supported. For many musicians, these venues are where their dreams begin and events like the one planned by 3 Days of Wonder are a testament to how crucial these spaces are to the music industry.
Get your tickets
If you’re passionate about live music and supporting grassroots venues, this is an event you won’t want to miss. It’s an opportunity to celebrate some incredible local bands and contribute to an important cause.
Tickets are available now, so be sure to grab yours and join 3 Days of Wonder for a night of great music and positive impact.
For more on 3 Days of Wonder’s upcoming gigs and performances, be sure to visit their website, and follow them on Instagram, Facebook, Threads and TikTok @3daysofwonder for updates and news.
