Ste Allen, renowned music promoter, recently spoke to 45 of our Popular Music students about the exciting opportunities presented by Sonic Futures, an initiative aimed at empowering the next generation of artists, venues, and producers in the Tees Valley.
In his inspiring talk, Ste highlighted how Sonic Futures is providing young musicians the chance to shape the future of the music industry in the region. The programme has secured a £2 million investment to develop opportunities for emerging talent. Those selected will receive mentorship from industry experts, equipping them with the tools needed to release their own music, work as promoters, or gain hands-on experience as technicians behind the scenes.
Ste also shared insights from his career, including his experiences as a promoter at the legendary The Empire venue in Middlesbrough, working with artists like The Arctic Monkeys, The Kooks, Johnny Marr and Blossoms.
Mike Hepple, Course Leader of Popular Music, commented “Many of our talented students have been inspired to take their first steps into the industry.”
Kay Thompson, student and member of QE band The Wednesday Flowers spent some time chatting with Ste about her band’s new single ‘Love Me’ and is excited at the prospect of working with an industry mentor. Jimmy Smith welcomed the chance to ask how best his band The Callows can promote their single ‘Baby Blue’. Stan Young who composes music for video games expressed how the project will make the industry more accessible for young people who otherwise wouldn’t have access to the expertise of industry professionals.
