Mayor bids to strengthen Greater Manchester’s music scene

Radical new plans to strengthen Greater Manchester’s music scene, from established artists to up-and-coming musicians of all genres, have been revealed.

Working alongside UK Music and a panel of experts, Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham has set up a major review to see how the city-region’s thriving scene can be nurtured, encouraged and refreshed.

Over the next six months, voices from across the music industry will be asked share their views and experiences of Greater Manchester’s music culture as part of these exciting plans, which were unveiled at Low Four Studios part of Old Granada Studios - Allied London’s new St John’s development.

The review will look into Greater Manchester’s musical strengths, as well as where the music scene can be improved, ensuring that artists are supported to develop sustainable careers where everyone can access music in a safe and inclusive way.

Building on Greater Manchester’s incredible music heritage, the review will support bands of all cultures and backgrounds including our well-defined indie legacy to music of black origin, brass bands and orchestras.

UK Music will lead on the review, supported by three chairpeople: Inspiral Carpets Martyn Walsh, former Sony UK CEO Ged Doherty - who is also chairman of the British Phonographic Industry and the Brits, and Karen Boardman, co-director Crisis Management LLP.

Mr Burnham said: “Greater Manchester has led the way when it comes to British music, producing some of the greatest bands this country has ever known from Oasis to The Stone Roses, as well as being home to internationally-renowned orchestras.

“The music greats of our past inspire young musicians of today. We must build on this, beyond the already well-defined indie legacy, to truly embed culture and the arts in the heart of our communities and give future generations the opportunities to fulfil their creative potential.

“This review will enable us to support artists, businesses and audiences of all genres so that they are able to get more out of creating the music they love.”

UK Music publishes annual reports on the economic contribution of music. The 2017 Measuring Music report revealed that the music industry generated £4.4 billion to the UK economy. The review of the city-region will reveal, for the first time, the value of music to Greater Manchester.

UK Music CEO, Michael Dugher said: “The review will help identify ideas to widen opportunities and develop the talent pipeline across the city region, building on its formidable music heritage and to lure even more visitors to live music events in and around Manchester.”

An advisory panel will be set up in the coming weeks with representatives from across Greater Manchester’s diverse music scene.

Running alongside three roundtables, the review will provide a comprehensive assessment of what musical resources are currently available for musicians, music businesses and audiences across all genres of music, from venues and practice spaces to gigs and festivals in Greater Manchester.

Early next year, the review will make recommendations on how Greater Manchester’s status as a music city-region can be enhanced with the cultural and economic benefits to maximise the already thriving scene.