Factory Sounds, the annual music development programme from Factory International, has announced its return in 2025. The scheme aims to support music industry workers in the Greater Manchester area by providing financial backing for their careers or specific projects through grants distributed to successful applicants.
Financial Support for Music Industry Workers
15 selected applicants will each receive £1,000 to aid in the creation of new projects, access to recording studios, peer-to-peer support, networking opportunities, and a series of masterclasses in artist management, promotion, fundraising, and more. Factory International emphasizes that those chosen will receive mentorship and skills training in the music industry to champion under-represented voices and grassroots communities.
Opportunities for Various Music Industry Professionals
The programme is open to producers, DJs, artists, collectives, record labels, promoters, radio stations, bands, and more. Previous recipients of support include queer electronic night FLUFF, community station STEAM Radio, and artists like Samrai, Obeka, Sam Malik, OneDa, and Caitlin LM.
Disparity in Opportunities for Young Musicians
A study by Youth Music revealed a significant gap in opportunities for young musicians between the North and South of England. It highlighted that 98% of young artists in the North have never performed at local music venues, attributing this disparity to a lack of support and funding.
Supporting Manchester’s Music Scene
Factory International’s Head of Music, Rivca Burns, expressed excitement about supporting and nurturing Greater Manchester’s talented musicians through programmes like Factory Sounds. The initiative aims to meet the high demand for such schemes by increasing the number of places and providing industry mentors for expert guidance.
Applications for 2025 Programme
Interested individuals can apply for the Sound Factory’s 2025 programme until January 20, 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to receive financial support and mentorship to advance your music career.
Stay Connected
For more updates and music industry news, follow Gemma Ross, Mixmag’s Assistant Editor, on Twitter.
FAQs
Q: Who is eligible to apply for the Factory Sounds programme?
A: Producers, DJs, artists, collectives, record labels, promoters, radio stations, bands, and more are welcome to apply.
Q: What kind of support do successful applicants receive?
A: Each selected applicant will receive £1,000 to support their projects, access to recording studios, peer-to-peer support, networking opportunities, and masterclasses in various aspects of the music industry.
Q: When is the deadline for applications?
A: The deadline for applying to the 2025 programme is January 20, 2025.
Q: How can I stay updated on Factory Sounds and other music industry news?
A: Follow Gemma Ross, Mixmag’s Assistant Editor, on Twitter for the latest updates.
Credit: mixmag.net
