Talent & Skills
For artists. For industry. For your next step.
We support emerging talent and industry professionals at every stage of their journey - from first studio sessions to national recognition. Whether you're an artist, producer, promoter or aspiring exec, we offer practical training, tailored mentoring, and real industry access to help you grow.
Current Programmes
We run open calls and talent programmes throughout the year.
Opportunities open at different times - so if you don’t see something right now, don’t worry. Keep an eye on our What’s On page, follow us on socials, and sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know when applications go live.
A long-standing partnership built on belief. We’re proud to be a key partner of Youth Music. Like them, we believe every young person deserves the chance to transform their life through the power of music.
From studio time and mentoring to live showcases and national platforms, our work together creates real opportunities for emerging talent across the North.
First Notes
Designed for early-career artists aged 18–25, First Notes helps musicians take their first step towards professionalising their sound - from recording in the studio to launching a release and performing live.
Next-Up
A new programme for Rap, RnB and Afrobeats artists aged 18–25, focused on collaboration, creativity and visibility. Artists work together on a track and video, while building connections and confidence along the way.
Generator Young Ambassadors
A board of 18–25-year-olds helping shape the future of Generator. Our Ambassadors work with us to challenge, inform and improve our programmes - making sure we stay relevant and rooted in the communities we serve.
Community First: How We’re Powering the North’s Creative Culture
Community First: How We’re Powering the North’s Creative Culture
Music Industry Advisory Group
Informed by the Music Industry Advisory Group (MIAG) we offer free, one-to-one advice sessions on how to secure a role in the industry (From funding and music law to A&R, touring and management.)
We also have advice sessions on how to accelerate your music career from a range of music industry professionals. No gatekeeping. No jargon. Just real insight from people who’ve been there.
The Music Industry Advisory Group
Michelle Escoffery
Songwriter / PRS Foundation Trustee
Joel Thompson
Music Promoter
Chelsea Wood
CEO, Wood Management / Got Music
Bernard Butler
Musician / Producer / Lecturer, BIMM London
Hazel Wilde
Musician, Lanterns On The Lake
Paul Lennon
Music Lawyer, Statham Gill Davies Solicitors
Sue Collier
Festival Director & Live Events Producer
Keith Harris
Music Industry Consultant / Artist Manager
Thom Lewis
Music Producer
Grace Stubbings
Artist Development / Creative Practitioner
Nina Radojewski
Head of Membership, AIM
Davy Wales
Member Development Manager, PPL
Liam Reay
Director, Wipe Out Music
Olivia Fuller
Manager, Hardwick & Morris
Wendy Smith
Creative Director, The GlasshouseTechnical skills for life events
Want to build a career behind the scenes in live music?
It’s not just about artists - the live music industry needs skilled technicians, crew, and creatives to make it all happen.
Throughout the year we run accredited and non-accredited Technical Skills Courses, in partnership with Newcastle College. These hands-on programmes give you real experience in sound, lighting, stage management and safety - preparing you for work in venues and festivals across the region.
- Emily Bowdon, Generator Technical Skills GraduateI always knew I wanted to work in live music, but I didn’t know where to start. The Technical Skills course gave me the experience, confidence, and connections to take that first real step into the industry.
Are you an artist or music professional from Tees Valley?
Our Sonic Futures programme offers tailored support, development opportunities and funding for people living or working in the Tees Valley.
From hands-on skills programmes to artist funding and local showcases, we’re building a stronger, more sustainable music scene in the region.
Be the First to Know
New opportunities drop throughout the year - from open calls and internships to skills programmes and artist support.
Sign up to our newsletter and follow us on socials to hear about them first.
