YOUNG people from across the Liverpool City Region and Warrington have launched a manifesto for the future of the music industry.

Sound! Music Hub’s Youth Board brought together young musicians, youth leaders, partners and supporters at a special event to launch the manifesto, which sets out key recommendations and priorities for improving music education, strengthening inclusion and ensuring that young people's voices are heard in shaping the future of the sector.

Representatives from the music industry, education sector and local government joined the Youth Board for a panel discussion on the future of music education and the role young people should play in influencing policy and decision-making.

The manifesto details four themes which young people want to see improved or implemented to support those embarking on careers in the music sector.

They are:-

• Pathways into Careers:- clear routes into paid music work, employer mentoring and careers advice.
• Training and education activity:- affordable and inclusive training, free access to instruments and kit and AI skills that serve music, not replace it.
• Performance Opportunities:- more regular opportunities for young people to perform, trusting young people to curate events, creating live music spaces in places like youth centres, libraries and community halls with pathways to bigger stages.
• Clear and accessible communication:- the development of a single 1-stop-shop where young people can find out about gigs, training, funding and pathways.

Councillor Paula Basnett, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Regeneration said:- "The Sound! Music Hub Youth Board Manifesto demonstrates the depth of insight young people have into the issues that matter to them and highlights the importance of ensuring their voices are heard when decisions are being made. We are committed to supporting young people to have a meaningful role in shaping the future of music education and the creative sector, and I look forward to seeing the impact of their ideas and ambitions."

The manifesto aims to demonstrate how encouraging greater youth participation, leadership and representation within music education and the wider creative industries, can act as a powerful vehicle for creativity, advocacy and social impact.

Sophie Hirst from the Sound! Music Hub Youth Board said:- “The manifesto discusses the issues that we, as a group, have identified as needing attention across the music industry and education. It is a call to action for decision-makers that young people need to be involved in shaping the future of music. We want to create a future where young people can see themselves in music leadership and access pathways to develop both personally and professionally through music.”

The manifesto launch event also provided a platform for young people to share their experiences of the vital role music can play in building confidence and strengthening communities.

Collaborative music project, The Q'Nards, made up of young people from across the Liverpool City Region and Warrington, performed their charity single:- ‘Stronger’ inspired by the group to raise awareness, positive change and support The Teenage Cancer Trust.

For more information on the Sound! Music Hub, click here. To read more about Sound! Music Hub Youth Board!, visit this link.