We are looking for four artists and/or bands from Greater Manchester to perform at the opening concert of WOMEX 24 in Manchester this October. 

This is a unique opportunity to showcase your music to around 2,600 of the world’s music industry from 90 different countries. 

As host partner for this year’s WOMEX, this is our chance to showcase Greater Manchester’s musical identity and incredible talent on the global stage.

What is WOMEX?

WOMEX (Worldwide Music Expo) is the most international and culturally diverse music meeting in the world and the biggest conference of the global music scene. 

The event features a huge trade fair, talks, films and showcase concerts. Its musical spectrum covers everything from the most traditional of music forms to the latest local underground, embracing folk, roots, jazz and local cultures, alongside electronic sounds from across the globe.

WOMEX 24 will take place in Manchester between 23-27 October, with the Bridgewater Hall hosting the prestigious opening concert on the first night (Wednesday 23 October).

About this Opportunity

If selected you will perform a 15 minute set at the WOMEX 24 opening concert at Bridgewater Hall on Wednesday 23 October.

To apply you should:

• Be an artist and/or band making music in the broad genre of global music – this could include Folk, Jazz, Latin, Reggae, Afrobeats, Roots, Electronic and Fusion
• Be an experienced ‘export ready’ artist and/or band who is able to make the most of this unique opportunity, and the associated networking opportunities

You will receive: 

• An honorary fee of £500 per artist/band (we’ll also cover your travel and expenses)
• WOMEX artist passes for you/your band
• A WOMEX delegate pass for one of your representatives
• Showcase listing to all WOMEX delegates

The deadline to apply is Sunday 23 June, 11pm.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for this opportunity you/your band should:

• Be aged 18+
• Be originally from Greater Manchester, or a current resident 
• Have at least one of the following representatives: Manager, Booking Agent or Label
• Have a comprehensive and up-to-date online presence including multiple social media platforms

You and your representative should also be able to commit to attending all of WOMEX 2024 (23-27 October 2024).

We want to hear from artists from a broad range of genres including Folk, Jazz, Latin, Reggae, Afrobeats, Roots, Electronic and Fusion.

For an insight into the types of artists who’ve played before, check out WOMEX’s YouTube playlist from 2023.

Apply now

Access

We’re aware that not everyone is able to fill out written forms. If you would prefer to submit a video application, please send this to jeka@manchestermusiccity.com.

You’re welcome to apply with support from a personal assistant or carer. 

If there is anything else we can do to help you to apply, please let us know.

Contact Details

If you have any questions please contact jeka@manchestermusiccity.com. 

Header image photo credit: Tarnish Vision 2, Kojey Radical at Dark Matter, Manchester International Festival 2017