The Great Escape unveils revamped conference with new industry collaborators

15 November 2023 - Press release

THE COUNCIL OF MUSIC MAKERS, NIGHT TIME INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION, BBC INTRODUCING LIVE AND YOUTH MUSIC ALL JOIN AS COLLABORATORS 
PLUS 
SPAIN REVEALED AS THIS YEAR’S COUNTRY PARTNER 

 

The Great Escape is proud to announce a transformation of its UK-leading conference with the introduction of new expert collaborators from across the music industry who will shape and elevate the programming of the event. 

The Council of Music Makers, Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), BBC Introducing LIVE and Youth Music will each use their networks to take the Great Escape conference to the next level and become an even more influential platform for music professionals to make connections and stay one step ahead of the latest industry trends. 

The week will kick off on Wednesday 15 May with the typical welcome party on the Brighton beach setting the tone, hosted by the record labels association BPI.  

Thursday 16 May will focus on the people behind the music, in collaboration with The Council of Music Makers. The umbrella organisation represents everyone from songwriters to artists, managers, composers, producers and musicians through its membership (Ivors Academy, FAC, MMF, MPG and the MU) - each covering different areas of expertise for music creators. 

On Friday 17 May, The Night Time Industries Association will highlight the importance of the UK’s fifth biggest industry, bringing the unique concerns of venues, live entertainment and the night time economy to the fore at one of the UK’s biggest showcases of live music. 

Saturday 18 May will see both BBC Introducing LIVE and Youth Music presenting a day focused on professional development for the next generation of emerging artists and music business entrepreneurs. 

Rory Bett, CEO of MAMA Festivals, said: “We’re very excited to have these amazing organisations on board as collaborators for our conference. They’re all tapped in to key areas of the music ecosystem for anyone forging a career in the modern industry, from bedroom artists to experienced professionals and entrepreneurs. Together, we’ll be curating a cutting edge line-up. Watch this space.” 

 

PARTNERS 

Spain is announced as The Great Escape’s Lead Country Partner for 2024. Led by The Spanish Wave and TGE, they will present a full programme with two showcases, panels on the Spanish music industry and industry receptions. Sila Lua, a Galician-born artist creating dance music with an experimental flair, is the first Spanish performer to be announced. The Great Escape’s first Spanish partners include: The Spanish Wave, AIE, Fundaćion SGAE, Instituto Cervantes, Live Nation Spain, Ticketmaster Spain and Mondo Sonoro. 

César Andión, Head of The Spanish Wave, said: "Everyone is looking at Spain and Latam at the moment. We are the gateway and bridge to Europe and Latinoamerica. Spain has a thrilling industry in talent and structure, a large and varied roster of festivals, venues, promoters and labels, so we are incredibly happy to coordinate Spain as Lead Country at the most exciting, well curated showcase festival and conference in the United Kingdom. After years bringing The Spanish Wave showcase to Brighton, now it’s time to highlight our vibrant industry with receptions, panels and the freshest and hottest music. ¡Nos vemos en Brighton!"  

Finally, the festival has announced that AudioActive, the Brighton-based non-profit that creates social change through developing emerging music talent, has come on board as 2024’s charity partner while leading music school BIMM returns as the education partner. 

Adam Joolia, CEO, AudioActive, said: “The Great Escape has been such an important platform for many of our emerging artists over the years so we are thrilled to be their Lead Charity Partner for 2024. By working with TGE we will be able to provide even more support for young people and emerging artists of all backgrounds, all year round.” 

Nicky Williams, Careers Manager, BIMM, said: “Being powered by dedicated student and alumni volunteers is one of the things that makes TGE special. Each year, we contribute approximately 100 hardworking individuals to the event, who gain invaluable behind-the-scenes experience and build industry connections. It truly stands out as a vital fixture in the UK and Europe's live music calendar. With some exciting new developments to our regular programme, we can’t wait to show you what we have in store as a University this year.” 

 

TICKETS FOR TGE 2024 

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