Over the last few years Coventry born Delia Derbyshire has begun to be recognised for the massive part she played in the development of electronic music, and having her name mentioned alongside other geniuses like Brunel, Newton and Da Vinci.
Nearly all of her archive now belongs and resides at The University of Manchester, even though she was born and brought up in Coventry. She said in her own words as a child of The Coventry Blitz, it was the sound of the air raid sirens and the crackling of burning buildings that opened her ears to "found sounds". Despite that apart from her induction on The Coventry Music Wall of Fame and various events at The Tin at The Canal Basin. Coventry has never really celebrated her in any great official capacity.
All that now changes, as The Coventry Music Museum opens a permanent display dedicated to the lady herself. From 10th December, visitors will get the chance to learn more about this true Coventry legend. As the museum reconstructs a part of The Radiophonic workshop, the place where Delia, The Sculptress of Sound, often used everyday objects to create unique musical works including the famous Doctor Who theme. Including the famous green metal Coolicon lampshade. In the display, the museum is gifted to have various items that belonged to Delia herself. Her personal tape recorder is on show, as are her personal copy of the Doctor Who theme, all loaned by her partner Clive Blackburn, who will also open the exhibition. Her control desk has been lovingly recreated by Geoff Holden and his team, and the display has been designed by Pete Chamberswith the help of Nigel Meffen & Lindsey Joplin, and Julie Chambers.
Quote from Director Curator of Coventry Music Museum, Pete Chambers.
It's been something of a labour of love to make this happen, but it feels very much like "mission accomplished". Finally having a place that celebrates her genius in her birth city is a great feeling, and one that hopefully our visitors will enjoy".
The Coventry Music Museum located on Ball Hill Coventry (CV2 4ED) is open Thursdays to Sundays, 10.00am to 4.00pm (last entry at 3.30pm). £3.00 entry for adults and £1.00 entry for children (5-15). www.covmm.co.uk