Music cities network summit to land in Sunderland
Global delegates will gather on Wearside to explore future of music and urban culture
Sunderland is set to take centre stage on the global music map this summer as it hosts the Music Cities Network (MCN) Summer Summit – the first time the international gathering has been held in the UK.
Music leaders, policymakers and industry figures from across the world will converge on the city from June 18-20, with a wider programme of events taking place throughout the week.
The summit marks a significant milestone for Sunderland, which only recently secured its status as a recognised Music City and joined the global MCN network. It will also serve as the finale to the city’s Year of Music, a 12-month celebration of its musical heritage and contemporary scene.
Over three days, the summit will focus on how music can shape future cities, with discussions exploring cultural policy, cross-sector collaboration and the role of innovation in sustaining music ecosystems.
International delegates will join local voices to share ideas and develop strategies aimed at strengthening music infrastructure both regionally and globally.
Alongside the main programme, a series of public performances, artist exchanges and showcases will take place across Sunderland, creating opportunities for local musicians to connect with global audiences.
Michelle Daurat, CEO of Sunderland Music City, said: “Hosting the Music Cities Network Summer Summit 2026 is a proud moment for us, as we welcome other Music Cities to experience first-hand the energy, creativity and collaboration that define our city.
“As we reach the culmination of our Year of Music, this Summit not only celebrates how far we’ve come, but also sets the stage for Sunderland’s future as a connected, innovative and internationally engaged music city.”
The event is also seen as a key moment in the ongoing work of the Music Cities Network to strengthen collaboration between cities and the music industry.
Lena Ingwersen, managing director of the Music Cities Network, said: “We’re delighted to bring our bi-annual MCN Summit to Sunderland this summer. The city’s energy has stayed with me since my first visit, and it feels especially meaningful to return at this moment, as the city closes its Year of Music.
“In Sunderland, we bring these ideas into practice: connecting members, sharing real experiences, and working across policy and practice to turn direction into action.”
Supported by Arts Council England and the North East Combined Authority, the full programme of Summit Week Sunderland and further announcements will follow in the coming weeks.