From indie rock to electronic, folk to reggae, and classical to punk, Oxford was home to a vibrant grassroots music scene in the 90s. The spirit of this multi-genre scene has had an enduring impact on both local and worldwide stages.
Sounds of the City is an exhibition of objects, memorabilia, and stories celebrating Oxford’s music scene in the 90s and beyond. The exhibition highlights iconic bands, gigs, grassroots venues, festivals, and record labels that all energetically shaped Oxford’s sound. Marking 30 years since BBC Radio 1 Sound City Oxford in 1997, the exhibition revisits pivotal moments in the city’s musical journey – from Ride’s breakout as ‘shoegaze’ progenitors, to Supergrass’ seminal album I Should Coco in 1995, and to Radiohead’s epic hometown show at South Park in July 2001.
These foundations have also inspired new talent, with Stornoway, Foals, and Glass Animals emerging from this scene. Well-loved events like Cowley Road Carnival and Reggae Christmas have fuelled vibrancy into the community for over 20 years. Sounds of the City also highlights a broader story about Oxford’s multi-genre music scene in the 90s and beyond.
Explore these displays to see a small snapshot of Oxford’s music scene in the 90s, and immerse yourself in the exhibition by listening to this curated playlist.
A programme of events will run alongside the exhibition, with intimate live music performances, lunchtime talks, walking tours, film screenings, and museum lates. Check out our What’s On page for updates.
Taking the exhibition as a starting point, the Sounds of the City project will also engage local youth through a series of creative workshops with Oxford-based artists and music makers. Come back to visit us again in early 2027 when these creative responses will be on display in the Oxford Town Hall as part of a 90s bedroom installation.
We are also inviting you to share your own memories or scrapbook ephemera through our collaborative digital archive City Stories. What is under your bed or in your attic? What are your local music memories? Share your stories in our digital archive.
Through our outreach programme, we have been asking local residents about what song makes you think of Oxford. Listen to this curated playlist which brings together some of these songs shared by local community.
Dates and opening hours
11 July 2026 – 13 March 2027, Museum of Oxford, Town Hall, St Aldates, Oxford OX1 1BX.
Open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. Exhibition entry is included in general admission tickets to the Museum of Oxford. Find out more on our Plan Your Visit page.
Sounds of the City has been curated by Beth Jones and guest curator Autumn Neagle. The original poster artwork and visual elements have been designed by Julia Utreras.
This exhibition, youth engagement project, and events programme have been funded by Arts Council England.
