An in-depth survey of music in Manchester and the economic impact it has on the city and those who work in the sector launches this week.
A first for the city in terms of the scope and detail of questions asked, the survey is aimed at anyone and everyone who works in music in Manchester – whether they are musicians, technicians, managers, promotors, venues, or businesses.
Commissioned by the city council through the Manchester Music City project, it’s hoped the survey will provide an up to the minute baseline of the size, depth and breadth of the music ecosystem in Manchester and the wider city region.
Getting this information is seen as a vital first step in supporting the recovery and success of the music sector as the city emerges from the pandemic – a sector that has been hit particularly hard over the last 18 months as venues and businesses were forced to close their doors, not just in Manchester but around the world.
The survey findings will be used to help build a better understanding of both its reach and the needs of those who work in it, as well as helping shape the future of the music sector in Manchester and input into future music strategies.
Councillor Luthfur Rahman OBE, Deputy Leader, Manchester City Council, said: “Manchester has long been known for its musical output and music made here in the city can be heard in some of the furthest reaches of the world. Pre-pandemic it is also what helped draw huge numbers of visitors here from far and wide every year.
“After the year we’ve just had however, with repeated lockdowns and venues closed, it will come as no surprise that as we emerge from the pandemic, music is a sector that needs our help, now more than ever.
“The survey will do much to enhance our understanding of the economic impact of music and the music sector’s workforce so we can support recovery and growth.
“It will provide the vital underpinning data needed to help shape future music strategy in the city and to ensure that Manchester’s music scene and the wider music sector recovers from the devastating economic impact of Covid-19.
“We want as many people as possible to take part in the survey to give us a true insight into music and all its associated businesses in Manchester and ultimately to help make sure that we re-assert the city’s global standing as a music city.”
Made up of music industry partners together with the city council, the Manchester Music City project has been set up to directly support the recovery and success of the music sector. The starting point for the project is this survey which is seen as vital to understanding the value music brings to the city and to finding out about the people employed locally by the music industry in all its many forms.
Debra King, Director of Brighter Sound and Chair of Manchester Music City, said: “This survey is for every music creator, music business, freelancer, and stakeholder involved in Manchester’s music ecosystem. Your survey response will help us better understand your needs, build a case for further support, and help us articulate the importance that your work in music has, not just for you, but for Manchester.”
The survey is being carried out by Nordicity and Sound Diplomacy on behalf of the city council and Manchester Music City, and opens on June 8 until midnight on Sunday 27 June. It can be accessed here
To help celebrate the gradual re-opening of the cultural sector in Manchester everyone who completes the music survey will be invited to take part in a prize draw for tickets to various events which have been generously donated by Ticketline, Kennedy Street Enterprises, Manchester Folk Festival, Manchester International Festival and HOME.
