The ambition to put Leicester on the national stage as a music city is taking another step forward with a major industry event and multi-genre artist showcase.
The Leicester Music Conference returns on February 28, and will see a host of leading industry names come together to supercharge the city’s music eco-system of artists, promoters, producers, venue teams and event organisers.
The conference programme has been put together by the newly formed Leicester Music Board led by Yasin El Ashrafi of HQ Can.
Tik Tok, Universal Music, Ableton, Music Minds Matter, UK Music, Night-Time Industries Association, PRS, Music Managers Forum, music:defined, Heritage Sounds, Youth Music, Help Musicians, BBC Introducing and BBC Asian Network will all be sharing industry knowledge.
The conference will look at ways of building a financially stable career in music – an issue brought to the fore most recently in the UK by the singer Kate Nash and by Chappell Roan in the US at the Grammys.
The programme will explore mental health and making the most of TikTok to unlocking funding and a behind-the-scenes look at how talent is discovered and how to find the right manager.
A live showcase in the evening will see the legendary DJ and producer Roni Size performing alongside Soweto Kinch, Queen Millz, Gemma Fox, Paris Cesvette, Simon ‘Schoolboy’ Phillips, Abhi, AC MC, Harri Georgio, JayaHadADream, Khushi Kaur, Amber Saqladi, Chantelle Marquez, Daman Hayer, Flynny O’Flynn, Jada O’Neill, Jake Thompson, JP Gill, Kiz, Matt Bury, Niki Kini, T O Soul, Tayo Branford, and THE OLD BOY, with more to be announced.
Yasin said: “Leicester is home to an incredible pool of talent, but we need stronger infrastructure and investment to help it thrive. With the right partnerships and events, we have the potential to make big things happen. That’s why I established the Leicester Music Conference and Music Board to drive real change and put Leicester on the map as a leading music city.”
He will be joined at the event by UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl who has previously expressed his support for the Leicester Music Board, saying it will play a crucial role in championing and nurturing the city’s exciting and diverse music scene.
Tom Kiehl said: “We look forward to continuing to work with the Board to put Leicester firmly on the map as part of a network of music cities aimed at giving everyone the chance to make the most of their musical talent.”
The need for a strategic approach to harness the potential of the diverse music scene in Leicester comes as the challenges facing artists, venues and festivals are widely reported.
Other panels on the day will explore the growing influence of South Asian music and the production techniques founded in Music of Black Origin.
Taking place at the 2Funky Music Complex, the Leicester Music Conference is aimed at aspiring musicians, industry professionals and music enthusiasts alike.
Delegate places are available from just £10 for the packed programme giving access to panels, workshops and networking opportunities. A delegate pass for the full day together with the live music showcase is £15.
For the full programme and booking details, go to www.leicestermusicconference.co.uk.
Leicester Music Conference takes place at 2Funky Music Cafe on Friday 28 February.