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Beyond The Music Festival Returns to Manchester in 2026

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, March 30th 2026 at 16:28 GMT by NME
      Locale: UNITED KINGDOM

Manchester, UK - March 30th, 2026 - The vibrant city of Manchester is gearing up to once again host Beyond The Music, a dynamic festival and conference dedicated to celebrating and shaping the future of the music industry. Following a hiatus, the event is officially returning in 2026, promising a renewed focus on fostering creativity, facilitating crucial networking, and showcasing both established and emerging talent.

Launched in 2021, Beyond The Music quickly established itself as a pivotal event on the UK music calendar, filling a crucial gap in the North West's cultural landscape. Previous iterations have attracted a diverse audience of industry professionals, aspiring artists, and dedicated music fans, all drawn to the event's unique blend of live performances, insightful discussions, and unparalleled networking opportunities. Past headliners have included chart-topping acts like Clean Bandit and indie favourites The Kooks, demonstrating the festival's ability to attract significant names while simultaneously championing up-and-coming artists.

Beyond The Music isn't simply a festival; it's a comprehensive ecosystem designed to support the entire music industry value chain. The conference element, a key differentiator for the event, offers a platform for discussions on pressing issues facing the industry - from the impact of streaming and artificial intelligence on music creation and distribution, to the importance of diversity and inclusion, and the challenges of touring in a post-pandemic world. Attendees can expect panel discussions, keynote speeches from industry leaders, and workshops designed to equip them with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving environment.

Co-founder Ben Jenkins expressed his excitement about the 2026 return, stating, "We're absolutely buzzing to announce Beyond The Music's return in 2026! We've got some seriously exciting things in the pipeline and can't wait to welcome everyone back to Manchester for another unforgettable experience." This anticipation stems from plans to significantly expand the event's scope and impact.

Expanding the Vision: What to Expect in 2026

Sources close to the organization suggest that Beyond The Music 2026 will feature several new initiatives designed to further enhance the experience for both attendees and participants. These include:

• Enhanced Tech Integration: Expect a greater emphasis on showcasing innovative music technology, including immersive experiences powered by virtual reality and augmented reality, and platforms designed to connect artists with fans in new and meaningful ways.
• Focus on Sustainability: The event is committed to reducing its environmental footprint, with plans to implement sustainable practices throughout all aspects of the festival, from energy usage to waste management.
• Artist Development Program: A new program will be launched to provide emerging artists with mentorship, performance opportunities, and access to industry resources.
• International Showcase: Beyond The Music aims to broaden its international reach, featuring artists and industry professionals from around the globe, fostering cross-cultural collaboration.
• Greater Community Involvement: The festival will partner with local organizations and schools to provide opportunities for young people to engage with the music industry.

Manchester's Role as a Musical Hub

The choice of Manchester as the host city is particularly significant. With a rich musical heritage that has spawned iconic bands like The Smiths, Oasis, and Joy Division, Manchester continues to be a vibrant hub for creativity and innovation. The city's thriving music scene, coupled with its strong infrastructure and accessibility, makes it the ideal location for an event like Beyond The Music.

Tickets and Passes

Early-bird tickets and a limited number of conference passes are available now via the official Beyond The Music website: https://beyondthemusic.org.uk/. Organizers are encouraging those interested in attending to secure their tickets early, as demand is expected to be high. The event promises a unique and compelling experience for anyone passionate about music, innovation, and the future of the creative industries. It's a chance to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the power of music in all its forms.