Leicester Music Conference 2026 and Creative Industries Expo - Friday 27th February 2026
Leicester Music Conference 2026 returns with an expanded programme and a new Creative Industries Expo!
TiME is pleased to be working in partnershipwith Dr Yasin El Ashrafi, HQ Creative Arts Network and the Leicester Music Board to support the delivery of the Leicester Music Conference 2026.
Taking place on 27th February 2026, the conference expands across 2Funky Music Complex and The Venue at De Montfort University, with the introduction of a new Creative Industries Expo on Friday 27 February.
The Industry Day on Friday 27 February, based at 2Funky Music Complex, features panels, workshops and discussions exploring artist development, music technology, wellbeing, creative careers and industry change. The day opens with a keynote from Myn Jazeel, Co-Chair of the MOBO Trust and Chair of Music Against Racism.
Panel sessions and workshops across the day include:
In the Mix: The Craft of Music Production, a deep dive into studio practice and production workflows
South Asian Futures in Music, exploring long-term career pathways and sector infrastructure
Indie Labels in the Modern Age, curated by the Association of Independent Music
BBC Introducing, focusing on artist development & routes into the industry
TikTok: Tools for Success, practical insight into audience growth & content strategy
Mental Health and the Music Industry, addressing wellbeing, resilience and support networks
Using Ableton Live for Live Performance, offering practical insight into performance setups and workflows
music:defined – What It Takes to Be an Independent Artist, covering rights, revenue and sustainability
Alongside the panels, delegates can take part in live demonstrations, networking opportunities and conversations with industry organisations and practitioners throughout the day.
Booking information: Conference & Expo pass: £10, Conference, Expo & Evening Showcase: £15
Creative Industries Expo only: FREE to attend (advance booking required)
Full programme details and booking information are available at:
www.leicestermusicconference.co.uk
Creative Industries Expo – Friday 27 February 2026
The Venue @ DMU | 10am–4pm | FREE to attend
The Creative Industries Expo forms a key part of the 2026 conference programme, bringing together music technology, creative tech, education and sector support organisations in one shared space. The Expo is free to attend, with advance booking available via Eventbrite.
Visitors can explore:
Music and creative technology exhibitors
Practical workshops focused on music production and microphone placement
A Meet the Funders Zone with Arts Council England, Step Up Fund and Youth Music
Opportunities to connect with artists, producers, educators and creative professionals
Confirmed exhibitors include Sontronics, ROLI, Digit Music, Voyager, Meesha Graphics, Leicester Fashion District, TiME: Table of Music Tech, Tonic Music, Soundstrokes, Desi Trill, Clarion and the Independent Society of Musicians, with more to be announced!

