A one-day grassroots music conference for the makers, champions and fans of independent music!
White Rock Theatre Studio
13 Feb 2026
10am-5pm
Programme:
10.30am-11.30am : Holding the Line: The Future of Grassroots Music Venue
Grassroots venues are the beating heart of the UK’s music ecosystem—but many are under unprecedented pressure. This panel brings together leading voices from across the sector to explore the real challenges facing venues today and the strategies that can secure their long‑term sustainability. Join us for a candid conversation about policy, funding, community impact, and what it truly takes to keep stages alive.
Chair: Jeff Thompson, Founder, Unconvention
Panelists:
Toni Coe-Brooker, Campaign & Communications, Music Venue Trust
Jon Collins, Chief Executive, LIVE
Claire Mera-Nelson, Director, Music, Arts Council England
Craig Pennington, Chief Executive & Co-Founder, Future Yard CIC
11.45am-12.45pm: Local Loud: How Regional Scenes Thrive
Thriving music scenes are built through many hands—promoters, record labels, venue operators and cultural organisations working together. This panel brings together voices shaping regional music ecosystems from the ground up to explore what’s driving momentum across the UK’s towns and cities, and how collaboration, identity and local infrastructure can help scenes truly flourish.
Chair: John Robb, Journalist
Panelists:
Geraldine Zanaska, Compass Music
Adrian Cooke, Sound and Vision founder & Arts Council England Music RM
Tony Bartholomew, Goo Records & Dirty Management
Sophia Stutchbury, Folkestone Music Town
2.00pm-3.00pm: Lifers: Creativity, Career and Survival in Modern Music
Presented by PRS for Music.
What does a sustainable creative life look like now? This panel gathers artists to discuss the realities of long‑term careers in an industry defined by rapid change. They explore the emotional and practical challenges of maintaining momentum, redefining success, and staying true to your artistic vision while adapting to new pressures.
Chair: David Quantick, Journalist & Author
Panelists:
Miki Berenyi, Lush/Piroshka/Miki Berenyi Trio
Romeo Stodart, The Magic Numbers
Ren Harvieu
Stuart Belsham, PRS for Music
3.00pm – Saffron, Republica, in conversation with James Endeacott
3.45pm-5pm Networking
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