Newcastle Gateshead Music City sets out next steps with new board
Initiative aims to strengthen grassroots and grow regional music economy
A new strategic board has been appointed to help drive forward plans for the North East’s music sector, as Newcastle Gateshead Music City looks to build on growing momentum across the industry.
Bringing together artists, venue operators, academics and industry professionals, the board has been created to guide the next phase of the Music City initiative, with a focus on turning research into action and strengthening the region’s music ecosystem.
The group will support the Music City Office, co-led by The Glasshouse International Centre for Music and Generator, following the publication of a new Foundation Report which sets out a long-term vision for the sector.
Michelle Escoffery, chair of the board, said: “This is a dynamic and well-balanced group of leaders, bringing both depth of experience and fresh perspective. Through collaboration and a clear focus on solutions, growth and delivery, we are committed to unlocking opportunity for the region and extending our impact far beyond it.”
The board includes representatives from across the music industry - from venues, radio stations and universities to promoters, record companies and artists. A full list of board members can be found below.
Jim Mawdsley, vice chair, said the formation of the board marked a significant step in recognising music’s wider value to the region.
“While music had always been a strong part of the cultural identity of Newcastle, Gateshead and the wider region, the impact it makes has not been recognised beyond acknowledgement and celebration. Music’s value as an economic and social driver has now made its case and is receiving the attention and backing that it deserves.
“By assembling a strong, experienced and multi disciplined music board for Newcastle Gateshead we will have even more effective leadership that will make a real difference to building an ecosystem with greater impact.
“I am honoured, excited and privileged to continue decades of commitment to the music sector in the region by accepting the role as Vice Chair of this new dynamic board and look forward to the achievements we will make together.”
The board’s work will be guided by the findings of a Foundation Report, developed with Counterculture and Newcastle University and supported by the North East Combined Authority.
The report highlights a busy sector with more than 1,400 music businesses and artists operating across the region. In 2023/24, music contributed £364 million to the local economy, supported more than 3,000 jobs and attracted 714,000 visitors.
Unsurprisingly, major national moments, including the MOBO Awards and Mercury Prize events get their moment in sun, having generated more than £2m in economic benefit as well and catching the interest of thousands of young people.
It also forecasts between £5.80 and £6.60 of economic value for every £1 invested while pointing to grassroots venues as central to the sector’s growth - 83% of those consulted recognised their role in developing artists and building communities.
Board member Adam Behr, head of music at Newcastle University, said: “Research shows that the conditions for real, sustained growth in Newcastle Gateshead’s music sector are in place: in talent, venues and the breadth of the ecosystem.
“The Board, and the work ahead of it, represents a real chance to translate that into coordinated strategic action that builds effectively on that foundation – to harness the investment now behind it and create opportunities and foster connections for the grassroots and throughout the sector.”
The report sets out priorities including strengthening grassroots networks, improving funding, expanding spaces for music and creating clearer pathways for talent to develop careers in the region.
Maia Beth, BBC Radio 1 presenter and DJ who is also on the new board, said: “I’m so proud to be joining the Newcastle Gateshead Music City Board.
“The North East is my home, it’s always been class and it feels like people are finally starting to notice. There’s so many talented people in this area and I can’t wait to help make sure they’re seen everywhere and to ensure opportunities are there for everyone, no matter who you are or where you’re from.”
Members of the Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board:
Adam Behr, Head of Music at Newcastle University.
Ambrose Field: Head of Design, Arts and Creative Industries, Northumbria University.
Caroline James, General Manager of Utilita Arena Newcastle.
Gabriel Day, Director, World Headquarters
Imogen Williams, Songwriter and Artist.
Keith Armstrong, Founder and Director of Soul Kitchen Music.
Maia Beth, BBC Radio 1 presenter and DJ.
Matty Aston, Head of Operations at Super Cat PR.
Mick Patterson: Artist Manager.
Paul Reed, Regional Organiser for the North of England at Musicians’ Union.
Ross Lewis: Production Manager at The Cluny.
Stephanie Haughton-Campbell, Chief Operating Officer at UK Music.
Sue Collier: Artistic Director, Programmer, Producer & Tour Manager.