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.
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.
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.
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
Byker Grave Presents Scott Hepple & The Sun Band, the Newcastle-based garage and psych-rock band channel the best of 60s and 70s rock through fuzz-soaked guitars, big riffs and catchy choruses. Support comes from Scottish psych/occult rockers Lucid Sins. Lineup: Scott Hepple & The Sun Band – Lucid Sins
