• UK music trade body to host You Are The Future Of Music on Wednesday 27th September - a free day of workshops and seminars for upcoming managers and artists

• Registration for tickets now open  

• Partners confirmed include Spotify, YouTube, AWAL, PledgeMusic, Sentric Music, Shoosmiths, PRS Foundation, BMI, OJK, Arts Council, Harbottle & Lewis, PPL, PRS for Music, MPA and BASCA

  The Music Managers Forum (MMF), the trade body representing more than 500 UK-based music managers is to host a free day of workshops and seminars aimed at benefittingthe next generation of music entrepreneurs on Wednesday 27th September from 10.00am to 5.00pm at the Old Granada Studios, Atherton Street, Manchester.  Businesses and organisations confirmed to present at the event, titled You Are The Future Of Music, include Spotify, YouTube, AWAL, PledgeMusic, Sentric Music, Music Support, PRS Foundation, PPL, PRS for Music, BASCA and the Featured Artist Coalition.  Alongside masterclasses and surgeries focussed on the latest music business innovations, the day will pack in practical information on a range of music-related issues including label and publishing deals, songwriting, funding and finance and mental health. There will also be one-to-one speed meetings, and an opportunity for aspiring music managers and artists to meet and network with top industry experts.  In to the evening, the event will bring together founders of the MMF alongside current board members and local industry figures for a drinks reception sponsored by YouTube, BMI and Jack Daniels. To register for free tickets, please head to www.bitly.com/mmfmcr.   The event will also act as a celebration of the MMF's 25th anniversary. The organisation was founded in Manchester in September 1992 at In The City, the long-running music industry conference started by the late Tony Wilson and partner Yvette Livesey. 

 Announcing initial details ofYou Are The Future Of Music, MMF Chief Executive, Annabella Coldrick, said: "Over the past 25 years, the MMF has aspired to support and empower each new generation of music managers and artists, helping equip them for the next wave of technological change. To celebrate such a major birthday, we thought it was fitting to return to a city that remains such a beacon of musical innovation and talent, and to connect with some of the region's brightest entrepreneurs and musicians."  Diane Wagg, MMF Chair said: "As a fledgling music manager at In The City in 1992 I remember the moment the MMF sprang into existence - so it feels entirely fitting that we're returning 25 years on with an emphasis on helping upcoming artists and entrepreneurs further their careers. Education remains a huge part of the MMF's remit, and this is a fantastic opportunity to meet and network with some of the world's most exciting music companies." Gary McClarnan, former MMF board member and founder of Sparklestreet, added: "Looking back, the formation of the MMF at In The City (Manchester) in 1992 was a really seismic moment for British music. For the first time, managers and their artists had a body to represent their interests and fight their corner - a role that has only increased in importance during the intervening years. In 2017, all us working in music are now reaping the benefits of that day. As a long-time member, I am delighted the organisation is returning to Manchester to celebrate its 25th birthday, and with an event that will benefit the current and future generations of music entrepreneurs."