Back to Live: PRS for Music launches competition to help local music venues bounce back

Independent live music venues are pivotal, not only in the music industry ecosystem, but within local communities, providing cultural spaces that inspire the next generation of singer-songwriters. The devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the live music sector and music creators has been well-documented; between 2019 and 2021, there was a 84% decline in the number of live performance setlists reported to PRS for Music.

PRS for Music’s Back to Live Music Venue Prize competition will run throughout the year and is open to independent live music venues that are not part of a national brand. Venues can be bespoke music venues or be part of another business such as a pub or bar, as long as they had an established standalone live music offering before the COVID-19 pandemic.

One of the Prizes is dedicated to venues in the Midlands and Northern England, and another to venues in Wales, with entries open today. East England, London, Northern Ireland, South England, and Scotland will follow.

With restrictions being lifted across the UK, music creators are eager to get back on stage and fans to once again enjoy live music. PRS for Music looks to support these venues on the road to recovery.

The Orielles

Back to Live Music Venue Prize 2022 ambassadors for the Midlands and Northern England

“We bonded over our love of music, and playing shows at independent venues is where we first broke ground as a trio. It’s a dream come true to be on stage performing and vibing off the audience’s energy. After a tough couple of years, we fully support PRS for Music’s Back to Live Music Venue Prize to help these great venues, that provide musicians with a unique place to hone their sound.”

CHROMA

Back to Live Music Prize ambassadors for Wales

“We cut our teeth playing in independent venues. They’re the future of music's breeding grounds where bands and music creators can find their feet in the live environment, build a fanbase and connect with peers also touring on the circuit. PRS for Music’s Back to Live Music Venue Prize is a great way to give back to these special places that give so much to musicians as they start their journey.”

Judges are looking for live music venues at the heart of their communities in which the £10,000 prize will make a real difference to the venue, music fans, and local music creators.

To enter the competition, applicants must detail how the prize money would be spent, and what it would mean for their business to win. The judging panel will be made up of leading figures and representatives from across the music, arts, and hospitality sectors.

Andrea Czapary Martin, CEO, PRS for Music, said: “Back to Live Music Venue Prize will shine a light on independent music venues across the UK. Venues play such an important part in the music industry ecosystem, with many featuring live performances by emerging talented songwriters and composers. We look forward to music creators once again taking the stage, and revelling in the joy that live music brings with it. Last year, we launched our 'On with the Show' campaign to support our members returning to performing live, this initiative builds on that to ensure we can joy that live music.”

For more information and the Back to Live Music Venue Prize entry form visit www.prsformusic.com/backtolive

Orielles photo: Neelam Khan Vela