What you can expect to see and learn at Un-Convention 2023

Un-Convention returns to Manchester this October, bringing together a host of industry names to discuss the present and future of the music and event industry. 

Every event of this magnitude is special, but this year, Un-Convention is celebrating its 15th anniversary. 

Ahead of the conference, we’ve put together a preview of what to expect and who’s set to appear. 

Have you secured your tickets yet? If not, head here to get involved. 

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What to expect on Saturday

On Friday 20th October, Un-Convention will take place at Manchester’s esteemed venue, Band On The Wall. 

Kicking off the day is a panel titled ‘State Of The Nation’. Here, you’ll be able to see the likes of the Music Managers Forum’s Paul Bonham, the Music Venue Trust’s (MVT) Bev Whitrick and more survey the state of the music industry. 

After a short break, artist Benedict Cork and NHS Greater Manchester’s John Herring will discuss how musicians can look after their mental and physical health. Then, it’s time for lunch and an acoustic performance from Katie Spencer. 

Next, album chart-toppers, The Lottery Winners will join Un-Convention founder Jeff Thomas to discuss number-one records, followed by EMI North’s Scott Lewis and Partisan Records’ Ellie Rumbold, among others, coming together to discuss how record labels can get an advantage in the streaming age. 

Honeyfeet will perform an acoustic set, and then it’s time for the final discussion of the day. Octopus’s Marie Favre, artist Natalie McCool, the Musician’s Union’s Dave Webster and more will discuss post-Brexit touring. Once the conference has finished, make sure you stay around for the networking drinks. You’ll get the chance to speak with panel guests and share knowledge with fellow attendees. 

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What to expect on Sunday

Saturday’s programme will take place at Manchester’s Central Hall. 

The morning set of panels will focus on the development of grassroots talent. First up? Developing and Protecting Regional Music Scenes’ with the MVT’s Jay Taylor, Hasting Fat Tuesday’s Hannah Deeble and more. 

Next, music managers Louis Brown, Loretta Andrews, Tash Cutts and more will give their perspective on the industry. 

After lunch, you’ll be able to see Mark Davyd of the MVT, Bluedot’s Ben Robinson, Earth Agency’s Angie Rance and our very own Duncan King, head of Business Development here at Skiddle, talk about the future of the independent live music scene on a panel titled ‘‘The Independent Live Sector – Where Next?’

The final two panels are titled ‘Building Solidarity In The Industry with Come Play With Me’ and ‘The Musicians View’. Come Play With Me is based in Leeds and runs a record label and magazine, as well as specialising in LGBT+ Inclusion and offering consultancy and workshops to organisations for organisations looking to improve inclusivity.

The latter will bring together several musicians such as The Lovely Eggs’ Holly Ross, Elbow’s Pete Turner, Bassist Steve Lawson and more to get the view from the frontline of the current music industry.

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