News

New research from PRS for Music and the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) has revealed that Belfast is the top location in the UK for live music in pubs. Beating every other postcode across the UK – including Birmingham, Nottingham, Bristol and Brighton – this recognition highlights the city’s deep-rooted musical culture and the … Continued

In the latest round of the Music Export Growth Scheme (MEGS), five Northern Irish acts have received a share of the £1.6 million funding aimed at boosting the international presence of UK artists. This scheme, developed and administered by the BPI, helps independent UK companies expand their artists’ commercial profiles in key overseas markets. The … Continued

The PRS International Showcase Fund offers grants of up to £5,000 to UK-based artists, bands, songwriters and producers who have been invited to perform or create new music at international industry-facing events. This includes festivals, songwriting camps, and conferences designed for music professionals rather than the general public. To qualify, applicants must have received a … Continued

Three NI artists – Winnie Ama, JC Stewart and Wynona Bleach – are off to Austin, Texas, to perform at South by Southwest (SXSW) 2025. Supported by PRS Foundation’s International Showcase Fund, with funding from The National Lottery, they will take to the stage at one of the world’s most influential music festivals, gaining exposure … Continued

AOIBHA has been announced as this year’s Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival Artist-in-Residence, marking another milestone in a year of growing recognition. Hailing from Co. Down, AOIBHA has spent the past 12 months establishing herself as a singular voice within Ireland’s indie-folk landscape. A string of high-profile support slots and a sold-out full-band show have signalled … Continued

Help Musicians are offering several fantastic opportunities for musicians in NI, providing support, funding and expert guidance to help artists develop their careers. The Fast Track Award will open from 24 March to 11 April, offering £500 to help musicians seize an opportunity. Whether it’s recording, performing, or gaining new skills, this funding could be … Continued

  The Oh Yeah Music Centre are looking for a Creative Producer to join its team, offering a wonderful opportunity to be at the heart of Belfast’s UNESCO City of Music. This part-time role is central to shaping Oh Yeah’s diverse calendar of events and programmes, from Sound of Belfast and the NI Music Prize … Continued

SXSW Sydney Music Festival returns in 2025 for its third year, offering artists the chance to perform in one of Sydney’s central live music venues in front of industry representatives, media, and thousands of fans from around the world. Showcasing at SXSW Sydney is more than just a gig – it’s an opportunity to make … Continued

Nightlife advocacy group Free The Night has welcomed the findings of an Independent Review of the Liquor Licensing System in NI, released on 21 February 2025. The review, conducted by the University of Stirling with researchers from Sheffield and Edinburgh, sets out 26 recommendations to modernise licensing laws and bring NI in line with the rest of … Continued