Artist Development opportunities at The Glasshouse  |  View in browser

New Ways of Moving in the Counterworlds: three people are stood on stage, one lady singing into a microphone, one man playing a clarinet and the other stood next to a double bass

Hey there,

We've got an exciting couple of weeks ahead here at The Glasshouse, as we get involved in the Mercury Prize Fringe activity happening across Newcastle and gear up for the launch of our Autumn Studios programme.

Our next BBC Introducing from The Glasshouse gig takes place on Monday 19 October as part of this year's Mercury Prize Fringe, celebrating brilliant musical talent across the region. Headliner Tom A. Smith will be joined by performances from Ellur and Robyn Banks for what promises to be a cracking night of live music.

Our Autumn Studios programme kicks off in the last week of October, bringing a fresh round of opportunities for artists to get creative, develop their practice and take the next steps in their musical journey. Keep an eye out on our socials to see which artists will be taking part in this year's residency. 

Got some original songs you're itching to share? Or fancy being among the first to hear what local songwriters and musicians have been creating? Open Mic Night – Songwriters Club is back on Friday 27 November - a night dedicated to original music, bringing songwriters, musicians and music fans together at The Glasshouse. Performers get free entry, so whether you're ready to take to the stage or fancy coming along to support some brilliant local talent, there's a place for you!  

The next BAPAM clinic is happening on Friday 23 October 2026. If you make a proportion of your living from, or study in the performing arts, and have a physical or psychological health problem related to your work, BAPAM can help with problems including creative practice-related injuries and pain, muscular tension, voice problems, hypermobility, performance anxiety, work-related mental health concerns and other psychological issues. 

Each month we share the latest opportunities, resources and events in this newsletter, so be sure to check out our handpicked list below. Keep an eye on the deadlines as some are fast approaching.

Stay creative and take care,

The Glasshouse Artist Development Team
(Lucy, Rianne, Maria, Adele)

Cover Photo: New Ways of Moving in the Counterworlds by Jay Dawson

Opportunities

In Motion 2027

A young woman is stood with her hand on a grand piano. She is wearing a long black and orange dress

In Motion is Sound and Music's transformational 18-month artist development programme for original creators who are committed to challenging and evolving their practice and are ready to invest time, attention and energy in where it could go next. It is the UK’s only long-form, holistic and bespoke programme designed specifically around each artist’s creative ambitions. They support up to 10 creators to design and embark on the next chapter of their creative and professional journey, providing the space, personalised support, funding, networks and skills development to realise their ambitions.

Deadline: 11.59pm on Monday 2 November 2027

Jacaranda Launchpad

Applications are open for Jacaranda Launchpad, their competition for new bands and artists. Shortlisted acts play heats at The Jacaranda Club from Tuesday 3 November. The best go through to the semi-finals and final at Jacaranda Baltic, and the final is on Friday 27 November. A panel from Jacaranda picks the winner. The winning act gets a studio recording, their track pressed on vinyl, a mentor from Jacaranda Records and a headline show. Launchpad is open to bands and solo artists from the North West and the rest of the UK.

Deadline: Monday 19 October 2026

Sound Roots: Folk Album of the Year

Two male performers are on stage both playing acoustic guitars

Sound Roots and Folk on Foot have opened submissions for the Folk Album of the Year Award 2026, inviting artists, labels and publishers to submit eligible albums for consideration. The award aims to showcase the breadth and diversity of folk music across Britain and Ireland, celebrating originality, artistic quality and cultural impact, regardless of commercial profile.

Deadline: 11.59pm on Friday 30 October 2026

JAM: Call For Music

An orchestra is performing in front of an audience inside a church

JAM's annual call for scores. New music for SATB choir, brass quintet and organ, premiered and filmed at St Bride's, Fleet Street. JAM is free to enter and open to every UK composer. Selected scores receive a performance and professional film. Up to three works of up to ten minutes for SATB choir, brass quintet and/or organ.

Deadline: Monday 19 October 2026

Apply to Play: The Great Escape 2027

An electric guitar is propped up against an amp and a bass drum is in the background

Applications are now open to perform at The Great Escape 2027. The Great Escape is a leading new music festival in Brighton, showcasing hundreds of emerging artists from the UK and around the world across venues throughout the city, alongside a major music industry conference.

Deadline: Monday 15 February 2027

FOCUS Wales

Focus Wales 2027 logo is written in white against a dark green background

FOCUS Wales is back and will take place in Wrexham over 6-7-8 May 2027. FOCUS Wales is an international showcase festival taking place in multiple venues across the city of Wrexham, North Wales. The festival places the music industry spotlight firmly on the emerging talent that Wales has to offer the world, alongside a selection of the best new acts from across the globe. They are offering up to 100 artists a 30-minute set.

Deadline: Sunday 1 November 2026

Sensoria Scoring Contest - Sirāt

An old man with white long hair is holding a bow and arrow and staring just past the camera

Ready to put your music to picture? Sensoria Festival's ever-popular Scoring Contest returns, challenging composers to create an original score for the gripping trailer of Sirāt, courtesy of MUBI. A panel of industry experts will shortlist the entries, discuss them live with the composers at the event on Friday 23 October, and then both the panel and audience will vote for the worthy winners.

Deadline: Friday 16 October 2026

Jazz North: Northern Line

Northern Line is an 18-month programme that enables jazz and jazz-inspired artists living in the North to upscale their live touring development, with a cash bursary to subsidise gigs and reach new audiences. It has supported 90 bands since 2013. 

Deadline: Midday on Monday 2 November 2026

Funding

EFFEA Fund

A band are performing on stage with bright lights behind them and a crowd in front

The European Festivals Fund for Emerging Artists (EFFEA) is an initiative of the European Festivals Association (EFA) supported by the Creative Europe programme of the European Union, built to empower festivals and offer emerging artists a platform to establish themselves on the international stage. EFFEA extends an open invitation for festivals to work across borders and create a network of colleagues with shared goals. It recognises that the future lies in the synergy of diverse perspectives and collective efforts. Through an EFFEA Residency, festivals join hands to foster the success of emerging artists.

Deadline: Tuesday 3 November 2026

PRS Foundation: Composers' Fund

A young woman is seen playing an organ with sheet music above

PRS Foundation’s Composers’ Fund is an opportunity for composers with a strong track record, giving direct access to funding at pivotal stages in their career. A contribution of up to £8,000 – £15,000 is available to composers who are already making a significant cultural contribution in the UK and have the potential for greater impact in the UK and overseas. Previous projects have included recordings, the promotion and performance of existing works, international co-commissions and development, performer collaboration, residencies, sabbaticals or childcare costs and project or promotional support.

Deadline: Monday 19 October 2026

Help Musicians: Fast Track

A young woman with blonde hair is singing into a microphone with headphones on

This financial support of up to £500 can go towards anything from courses, networking opportunities and equipment to costs associated with recording and releasing. Whether it’s a short course, investing in new software, or taking opportunities to record and release, Fast Track is here to help you seize those opportunities. 

Deadline: Round 3 opens on Monday 19 October 2026

Help Musicians: Fast Track Live

A young man with a hat on is playing electric guitar in front of an audience

Whether you’re touring, playing a festival, performing at a showcase, taking on a support slot or reaching new audiences through live performance, Fast Track Live can help you take the next step. Through grants from £500 up to £1,000 and a dedicated career clinic session with a live music specialist, you’ll receive financial support and expert guidance to help you make the most of the moment.

Deadline: Round 2 opens on Monday 19 October 2026

International Showcase Fund

Three people are playing instruments on stage: one playing a double bass, one playing a bass guitar, and the final person one playing acoustic guitar

The International Showcase Fund (ISF) offers grants of up to £8,250 for international export opportunities for UK-based artists, bands, songwriters and producers who have been invited to perform or create new music at international industry facing showcase festivals and song writing camps. Previous recipients include Dave, Nova Twins, Kae Tempest, Glass Animals, Little Simz, Nova Twins, Sam Fender, AJ Tracey, and Wolf Alice.

Deadline: Friday 27 November 2026

International Artist Programme

A young guy is performing on stage and a crowd is in front of him. He is wearing a blue t shirt

The International Artist Programme helps Northern artists access global opportunities through targeted investment and wraparound industry support. Unlike national programmes operating at scale, NMEO combines regional insight with tailored funding, practical guidance and industry connections to help artists grow audiences, build relationships and develop sustainable international careers.

No deadline listed

Early Career Promoter Fund

Early Career Promoter Fund is written in navy against a grey background with the PRS logo underneath

Up to £3,500 for early-career independent promoters in England. Funding can support gigs, club nights, showcases, tours, artist fees, production, mentoring and other capacity-building activity.

Deadline: Thursday 29 October 2026

Music Creators Growth Fund

A young woman is singing into a microphone and holding an acoustic guitar next to her. The wording 'Music Creators' is written in white overtop of her image

The Music Creators Growth Fund is a new investment programme by Arts Council England designed to support growth across new music. The Fund will provide direct access to investment for music creators with a sustained track record of professional creative practice, enabling them to strengthen their skills, capacity, and resilience, and develop sustainable careers.

Deadline: Thursday 29 October 2026

Grand Plan Grants

The wording 'Grand Plan' is written in orange against a light pink background

£1,000 grants for UK-based artists of colour aged over 18, supporting a next step in their creative practice. Funding can cover time, equipment, courses, materials or travel. Applications can be written or audio.

Deadline: 11.59pm on Wednesday 21 October 2026

NMEIPP

The wording 'Northern Music Export Office' is written in black against a neon green background

Northern Music Export International Professional Programme provides up to £5,000 for Northern music professionals and businesses attending international conferences, showcase festivals, trade missions and market meetings. Support can cover delegate passes, travel, accommodation and visas, alongside help building international connections.

Deadline: Not listed

PPL Momentum Accelerator - Tees Valley

A girl is singing into a microphone and playing guitar. Another young man is in the background also playing guitar

Regional support for artists and music professionals based in Tees Valley. The Accelerator programme combines targeted funding with development support; check the guidance carefully when the round opens.

Deadline: Monday 26 October 2026 

PPL Momentum Accelerator - Liverpool City Region

Wires are seen attached to a board

Regional support for artists and music professionals based in Liverpool City Region. The programme combines targeted funding with development support; check the current guidance when applications open.

Deadline: Monday 26 October 2026 

PPL Momentum Music Fund

A pedal board is on the floor with wires coming out. There is also a microphone laid next to it on the floor

The PPL Momentum Music Fund offers grants of £5k-£15k for UK based artists/bands to break through to the next level of their careers. Activities eligible for support include recording, touring and marketing. Previous recipients include Little Simz, Sam Fender, Kae Tempest, Hannah Peel and many more.

Deadline: Monday 26 October 2026


Resources

For The Record x Edmondson

A man with short, dark coloured hair is staring down at the floor and smiling. He is wearing a blue hoodie

As part of the Mercury Fringe activity, For the Record joins forces with local DJ and producer Edmondson. Expect the usual open-deck format to kick things off, followed by a DJ set from the Lissoms label boss. Lineup: Edmondson. 

When? 6pm on Friday 16 October 2026 at Baby Grey, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne

Generator x The Globe Showcase

Five people are stood in a row staring and smiling into the camera. The young woman in the middle has her arms out across the rest of them

As part of the Mercury Fringe activity, The Globe’s showcase celebrates musical diversity in Newcastle, spotlighting the kind of emerging artists the venue exists to support. Headlined by Sophie Gordon Band’s disco, funk and pop, the lineup also features RYE’s electronic influences, the art student sounds of The Combovers and the folk- punk songwriting of Jade Mia Broadhead. 

When? 6pm on Friday 16 October 2026 at The Globe, Newcastle upon Tyne

Cobalt Studios Showcase

Ancient Infinity Orchestra is a gathering of voices, traditions and energies converging into something timeless. Hailing from Leeds, the 16-member ensemble, led by double bassist and composer Ozzy Moysey, brings together double basses, harp, saxophones, clarinets, strings, woodwind, mandolin, piano and percussion, with bells and shakers ready for members to use whenever the spirit takes them. 

When? 7pm on Friday 16 October 2026 at Cobalt Studios, Newcastle upon Tyne

Music Video Preservation Society - The Art Behind the Song

A row of buildings with lights hanging across between them

Hosted by Music Video Preservation Society founder David Knight, this special Mercury Fringe event combines a panel discussion and big-screen showcase exploring the creative process behind some of the UK’s most celebrated music videos. This instalment of MVPS – “The Art Behind the Song” – celebrates the 2026 Mercury Prize with some very special guests, including Lulu Vicedomini, rising director of Newcastle’s very own exciting young jazz prodigies Knats’ Bowling Ball music video.

When? 7.45pm on Friday 16 October 2026 at Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle upon Tyne

Generator: Playing Out

The wording 'Playing Out' is written in black against a green background

As an Official Partner of the 2026 Mercury Prize, Freight Island hosts a Mercury Prize edition of Playing Out, giving emerging talent the chance to perform alongside more established names and reach new audiences. Expect live sets and artist conversations spotlighting the artists shaping music in the North right now. Headlining: Hannah Robinson.

When? Thursday 15 October 2026 at Freight Island, Newcastle upon Tyne 

Northern Roots Showcase

A young woman with dark hair and a white and red vest is leaning to one side and staring off camera slightly

As part of the Mercury Fringe activity, Northern Roots presents a showcase celebrating artists developing their sound at every stage of their journey. Expect an unforgettable evening of Afrobeats, Rap, R&B and Soul, with live performances and DJ sets delivering high energy, authentic storytelling and exceptional musicianship throughout the night. 

When? Friday 16 October 2026 at Pilgrim, Newcastle upon Tyne

F54 Showcase

Three people are stood in a line staring directly into the camera

As part of the Mercury Fringe activity, F54 celebrates the North’s deep bond with industrial sound. Transforming post-industrial collapse into a creative sanctuary, these three acclaimed artists bridge regional heritage with a futuristic sonic pulse. Once forged in iron and steel, the region remains a haven for synthesised innovation. Lineup: Nadine Hurley – Crimewave – Sin Clair.

When? Friday 16 October 2026 at The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle upon Tyne

LIIFT Showcase

One young woman is laid across a table staring off to the left, and another is laid below her on the floor looking directly into the camera

Liift Live hosts an evening spotlighting one of the North East’s most exciting emerging acts. Headliners Dolder, identical twins Dani and Zara, pair harmony-led indie-pop with deeply personal songwriting, earning early acclaim from Rolling Stone, NME, The Line of Best Fit and Wonderland. Their debut EP The Motive marks them out as a rising force. Lineup: Dolder - Sarah Johnsone - Georgina Gale.

When? 7.30pm on Friday 16 October 2026 at The Head of Steam, Newcastle upon Tyne

Ōdio Bar Presents: Santa Leticia x Lovellious (Worldwide FM)

A young woman with long brown hair is staring straight into the camera.

As part of the Mercury Fringe activity, Worldwide FM residents Santa Leticia and Lovellious come together for an all-vinyl journey through jazz, soul, disco, broken beat, house, Latin, Brazilian, Afro and Caribbean sounds, alongside deep cuts and unexpected musical discoveries. Expect a journey through eclectic sounds from two experienced selectors. Lineup: Santa Leticia – Lovellious.

When? 8pm on Friday 16 October 2026 at Miso, Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne

Grainger Market Unplugged

Two young men are sat down in black and white outfits staring straight into the camera. They both have brown hair

Grainger Market Unplugged is returning for the Mercury Prize Fringe, showcasing acoustic sets from some of the most exciting emerging North East artists throughout the day. Experience live music in the market from brunch to bait and tea. Grainger Market Unplugged line up: FAWNS, Sam Bennett, Hels Pattison, Josh Webb, Polyvinyl, Bear Park Your Saturday shopping at Grainger Market just got a soundtrack. Supported by Creative Central NCL and programmed by The Support Act - Neave Farry.

When? Saturday 17 October 2026 at Grainger Market, Newcastle upon Tyne

Tommy Caulker: A Life in Records

A man with headphones around his next is shouting with his hand in the air

Public House Hi-Fi welcomes Tom Caulker, founder of Newcastle’s World Headquarters, for a two-part event tracing a life spent sharing music through records and his impact on Newcastle’s music culture. The afternoon begins with a seated listening session on the Public House Hi-Fi sound system, with Tom sharing records that shaped his career and the stories behind them. Residents Diz and Vinny Vins then play records they first heard Tom play and which influenced their own musical paths.

When? 4pm on Saturday 17 October 2026 at Gingerino's, Newcastle upon Tyne

Mini Mercury x First Gigs

An empty stage with red and yellow lighting

The First Gigs x Mini Mercury Showcase shines a spotlight on the next generation of North East artists. Three selected musicians, aged 12 to 18, will perform at The Grove, gaining hands-on experience of a professional live show, from preparation and technical advancing through to soundcheck and performance, alongside venue staff and sound engineers. Lineup: Shipyard Rejects - Martha & The Magpies - Evie Ferro.

When? 12pm on Sunday 18 October 2026 at The Grove, Newcastle upon Tyne

Zerox Showcase

The image is split up into three separate images of different things

As part of the Mercury Fringe activity, Zerox hosts an evening spotlighting some of the North East’s most exciting emerging acts. The genre-defying riser Esau, glam-pop powerhouse Cortney Dixon and LJ Adams (The Safest Place, Chintzy Stetson) come together to celebrate the region’s vibrant local scene. Lineup: Esau – Cortney Dixon – LJ Adams.

When? 7pm on Sunday 18 October 2026 at Zerox, Newcastle upon Tyne

Mini Mercury Promoters

Four people are stood in a line with different instruments on them - three electric guitars and a snare drum

As part of the Mercury Prize celebrations, a cohort of young people will come together to plan, produce and deliver their own live gig, gaining hands-on experience of what it takes to bring a live event to life. From artist liaison and advancing to production, programming, promotion and everything in between, the cohort will be involved throughout the process, developing practical skills and insight into the live music industry. Lineup: Nano Kino with support from Split The Ticket and Porcelain.

When? 7pm on Monday 19 October 2026 at The Cluny, Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle Uni x Music Hubs Amplify North East

Three people are performing on stage: a young woman with long brown hair in the centre singing into a microphone, two young men sat beside her

Co-convened and hosted by Newcastle University, the Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre, North-East Music Hub and Generator, Amplify North East brings together industry representatives, educators, policy specialists, researchers, young musicians and artists to celebrate the North East’s music sector and explore its strengths, opportunities and potential for future growth. The event aims to strengthen collaboration across industry, education, research and government, helping shape future policy, investment and partnership working across the region.

When? 1pm - 6.30pm on Monday 19 October 2026 at Boiler House, Newcastle University

Generator Live: BPI Member Meeting

A young woman is stood on a podium with a microphone speaking to an audience. An empty sofa is next to her

BPI are pleased to welcome you to the next Member Meeting which will be held in person at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Newcastle, with the option of a live stream for those who are not able to attend in person. This meeting is open to BPI members and industry guests, so do feel free to circulate the invite.

When? 4.30pm on Wednesday 21 October 2026 at The Crowne Plaza, Newcastle upon Tyne

Fenwick Fan Zone: Live Lounge Sessions

A young woman with brown curly hair is singing into a microphone and playing an acoustic guitar. A young guy is stood behind her, just out of focus

Fenwick is proud to partner with the Mercury Prize, bringing the excitement to Newcastle with the Fenwick Fan Zone - created for fellow music obsessives. Set within The Tavern at Fenwick, this Live Lounge-style event invites you to discover the shortlisted albums in a new light, connect with other fans, and enjoy live performances that capture the spirit of Mercury week. Six artists from the North East will be selected through an open call run by Generator.

When? 12pm on Thursday 22 October 2026 at Fenwick, Newcastle upon Tyne

From Shot To Sleeve

The wording 'From Shot to Sleeve: Shooting and editing content for musicians' is written in white against a dark grey background

This hands-on workshop shows you how to capture and create your own professional-looking content, so you can keep your band or artist brand looking sharp without the studio price tag. This three-hour session takes you from behind the camera to a finished, ready-to-post edit. Whether you're a musician shooting your own content or you work in content creation across the music industry, you'll leave with photography you can actually use and the skills to keep making quick, polished content long after the session ends.

When? 10am - 1pm on Tuesday 27 October 2026 at Hope Street Xchange, Sunderland

EMI North x Notion Live Events Showcase

Five people are all wearing sunglasses and staring at different points away from the camera

As part of the Mercury Fringe activities, EMI North presents some of the best emerging talent from across the North of the UK. Headlined by Glasgow alt-rockers walt disco, hot on the heels of their new self-titled album, with additional special guest performances from Lucky Iris and Mace The Great. Proudly promoted with Notion Live Events. Lineup: walt disco

When? 7pm on Tuesday 20 October 2026 at The Grove, Newcastle upon Tyne

Tyne & Queer Showcase

Three individuals are sat down staring straight into the camera. The image is blurry

As part of the Mercury Fringe activities, Tyne & Queer present a special double-headliner event featuring BONG II and THRAA, with support from GREET. Expect a night of expansive, heavy and atmospheric sounds from three distinctive acts. Lineup: BONG II – THRAA – GREET.

When? 7pm on Tuesday 20 October 2026 at The Cluny, Newcastle upon Tyne

Generator Live Conference

People are seen sat in a row staring at a stage

A full day of conference panels, conversations and behind-the-scenes insights from artists and industry leaders shaping what’s next. Featuring brilliant speakers, special guests and plenty of chances to connect. Whether you're making music, building a career or just getting started, this is where you need to be.

When? From 11am on Wednesday 21 October 2026 at The Crowne Plaza, Newcastle upon Tyne

BBC Introducing Live at The Fire Station

The BBC logo is central with a pink and blue speckled background

BBC Introducing LIVE will take over The Fire Station for a day of panels, open mic sessions, and an industry feedback centre. This event will offer attendees the chance to network with top tier industry leaders and receive personal feedback on their music. The day will feature engaging panels designed to help you develop your music career, grow your audience, and build your brand, alongside a Feedback Centre staffed by industry experts from major & independent labels, BBC presenters & producers, and other key figures from across the music industry. These professionals will be on hand to listen to your music, share their expertise, and provide valuable feedback to help you develop your sound and refine your craft.

When? From 1pm on Friday 6 November 2026 at The Fire Station, Sunderland

ANY CREATIVE: Networking Social & Industry Party

An audience is seen looking at a stage with bright lights and a band on. The wording 'Any Creative Networking Social & Industry Party' is written in white against a purple background

ANY CREATIVE is built by creatives, for creatives - a networking social that meets industry party, hosted by Marisam Events. All creative disciplines are welcome to come along and hear real talk from professional industry panellists, make real connections and develop real opportunities. Grab a drink and connect with community! Also featuring performances from Phantom Bagman and Elision Acapella. 

When? 7.30pm Friday 20 November at Pilgrim, Newcastle upon Tyne 

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The Glasshouse International Centre for Music (North Music Trust) is registered in England as a company limited by guarantee, number 4044936 and as a charity, number 1087445.

The Glasshouse International Centre for Music (North Music Trust), St Mary's Square, Gateshead Quays, Gateshead, NE8 2JR