Tom-Kiehl-and-Dan-Jarvis

Music tourism adds £92m to Sheffield City region’s economy

A UK Music report on the region’s music sector was launched today (Thursday) and outlined five recommendations.

Bekki Bemrose
  • By Bekki Bemrose
  • 19 Dec 2019
  • min read
A UK Music report on the region’s music sector was launched today (Thursday) and outlined five recommendations.

The music tourism figure is just one of the findings in a UK Music report on the region’s music sector, which was launched by the Mayor of the Sheffield City Region, Dan Jarvis and Tom Kiehl (pictured), UK Music Deputy chief executive.

Firstly, the report advises that all young people from all backgrounds should have access to music education and be able to pursue a career in music.

It also proposes that grassroots music venues should be protected by offering business rate relief, help with licencing and improved accessibility for deaf an disabled audiences and performers.

The report also suggests creating a transport system that is fit for purpose and that supports the night time economy.

Lastly, it recommends reaching out ot every corner of the region and recognising that different parts of the region have different needs and challenges.

Dan Jarvis, Mayor of the Sheffield City Region, says: ‘The region has a wealth of musical talent from all genres, from rock and pop through to opera, classical and folk. I want us to nurture this talent and create an environment where everyone, from primary aged school children right up to established musicians, can foster their passion for music and realise their ambitions.

‘I know that there is more that we can do to promote our region’s musical offer nationally and internationally. This new report from UK Music now enables us to focus on the areas in which we can have the greatest impact.

‘My Music Board, chaired by Laura Bennett, will now work with UK Music and industry experts from across our region to take forward the recommendations detailed in the report. They will work together to develop our region’s musical potential on the national stage, grow our cultural economy and help new talent to shine.’

Michael Dugher, chief executive, UK Music, comments: ‘Dan Jarvis knows just how important music is in the economy and cultural life of the Sheffield City Region and how it could play an even bigger role.

‘This important UK Music report is about how we build on the region’s fantastic musical heritage and the £92 million it already generates to grow the local economy, attract investment and create more jobs.

‘We are delighted to have worked with Dan to establish the new Sheffield City Region Music Board and look forward to continuing to work with its chair Laura Bennett to grow the music scene and music tourism, protect venues and boost opportunities for young people in every community.’

Laura Bennett, chair of the Sheffield City Region Music Board, adds: ‘We’re delighted to receive the UK Music report for the region. The Music Board has been exploring how we can work together to champion music makers, music lovers and the music industry to support talent and grow our region’s cultural economy.

‘This report will help to establish where we are now, inform our conversations, and provide valuable evidence for planning the work that we do next. We now look forward to working together to deliver real cultural change for the region.’

Read a copy of the full report here.