Musically Unorthodox Conference 2026: Reach → Routes → Reality

The Musically Unorthodox (MU) Conference is a unique forum bringing together young people, educators, policymakers, industry leaders, and creatives to explore new pathways into music and media.

This forward-thinking event focuses on supporting young people, particularly those outside mainstream education, employment, or traditional career routes, by connecting them with opportunities, mentorship, and creative industry insight.

Our mission is simple: to address the flaws, fill in the gaps, and build the full ecosystem that allows any young person, regardless of their background, to build a sustainable career in music.

This year’s conference is structured around three interconnected challenges:

• REACH: How do we find and engage marginalised young people who believe opportunities "aren't for them" or don't know they exist?
• ROUTES: How do we create clear "what next?" pathways so that when initial support ends, young people don't fall through the cracks?
• REALITY: How do we provide legitimate, paid "earn while you learn" opportunities, that offer income now and a career later?

• Youth Voice First: Young people are not a token panel. They are in the room as equal partners, shaping the priorities and co-designing the solutions from the very first breakout session.
• Action, Not Abstraction: You will leave with concrete commitments. Past attendees have helped launch pilot projects, building national youth music networks and income generation initiatives.
• A Unique Mix of Voices: The room is deliberately curated to include young people (aged 13-21, including those from NEET, alternative provision, and care-experienced backgrounds), youth and talent development organisations, the live music sector (venues, festivals, agents), education and youth services, and music industry infrastructure.

The day is a high-energy mix of short keynotes, youth-led breakouts, practical action labs, and a marketplace of opportunities. You won't just listen, you'll build.

✅ Lightning Stories: Real experiences that anchor the day in reality.

✅ Youth-Led Breakouts: Young people set the agenda on what works, what doesn't, and how to truly reach them.

✅ Marketplace Lunch: Meet industry practitioners, venue owners, event organisors and support services offering real opportunities.

✅ Our Promise: You will leave with a practical commitment, a pilot idea, a key partner, or a clear next step, not just a notebook full of inspiration.

• Young people (13+) who want a future in music
• Youth workers, teachers, and talent development organisations
• Venue managers, festival promoters, and live music professionals
• Local authorities, youth services, and policymakers
• Music industry professionals committed to grassroots access

Free (+ provides entry to Showcase)

Spaces are limited. Register now.

Your Conference ticket includes free entry to the MU Showcase, an evening celebration of live music featuring emerging talent, aspiring acts, live bands and a headline performer.

Taking place at The Black Diamond from 7:00 PM, the Showcase is your chance to unwind, network, and witness the future of UK music, the very artists and creators this movement exists to support.

For Conference attendees: Simply wear your wristband for entry.

Attending the Showcase only? Separate tickets are available via our Eventbrite page.

Full lineup to be announced. Capacity is limited, so advance booking is recommended even for Conference attendees to guarantee your place.

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