Ear to the Ground gives industry the chance to meet Newcastle’s artists first-hand and build lasting relationships with the local music scene. It’s an opportunity for those artists to take the next step in their careers. Each artist will showcase their work to industry guests, playing back previous recordings and performing a couple of new songs live in the studio. They’ll also leave with recordings they can keep and use in the future.
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
Music management is evolving fast, and this one-day workshop offers practical insight into the realities, opportunities and responsibilities of modern music management. Led by Paul Bonham, Professional Development Director at the Music Managers Forum (MMF), the session is open to experienced and aspiring managers alike, with an inside look at the MMF’s latest work in training, business models, research and campaigning, and how it can support your development as a manager.
The session combines a 30-minute illustrated talk with a hands-on collage workshop. Jimmy shares the creative process behind record sleeves, single artwork, music videos and visual identities before guiding participants through his Dice & Disruption methodology. Using found imagery, typography and chance-based prompts, participants will create an original album or single sleeve while exploring how visual ideas respond to sound, mood and storytelling. Suitable for designers, illustrators, musicians, students and anyone developing a playful, experimental creative practice.
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. At 6pm, the deck chairs clear and Tom takes control for a five-hour, all-evening set. Lineup: Tom Caulker - Diz Jockey - Vinny Vins
