The Parallel Music Conference will return to Southampton for its third edition on April 23 and 24, with a packed programme of panels, workshops, and networking events across the city centre.
Free to attend with registration, the conference aims to break down barriers to the music industry by offering education, insights, and opportunities to artists and creatives from all backgrounds.
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Jamie Ford, co-founder and programme director of Parallel Music Conference, said: “We’re incredibly excited to launch the programme for year three of Parallel Music Conference.
“Fully aimed at supporting and connecting the next generation of music industry, artists and creators of all backgrounds. The full event is free – breaking down barriers to ensure music industry insights and education are accessible.”
The event will be held at three central venues: Southampton Solent University (Spark building), University of Southampton (Sir James Matthews building), and the music venue Papillon on Commercial Road.
Parallel Music Conference also aims to spotlight the vibrant music community in Southampton and the wider regions of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight – from artists and live venues to creative organisations and charities.
The 2026 conference is backed by Arts Council England’s Supporting Grassroots Music fund, helping to bring funding and entry-level job opportunities into the region.
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Mr Ford said: “Southampton is such an incredibly dynamic, vibrant and creative city.
“We can’t wait to champion what the Southampton, Hampshire, and Isle of Wight music communities and ecosystems have to offer to the rest of the country.
“In addition, we’re incredibly grateful for the support from Arts Council England’s Supporting Grassroots Music fund for 2026 – enabling us to support and champion communities more than ever.”
Industry speakers confirmed for 2026 include representatives from Warner Music UK, Eleven Management (Bastille, Gorillaz, Blur), LAB Records, the Music Managers Forum, Kobalt, TuneCore, and Women in Music.
The conference is led by Jamie Ford, founder and promoter at SoYoung Live and Honeymooner Collective, and Matthew Bisgrove, director of Trauma Management and marketing coordinator at KOVA International.