The music conference and festival will take over various venues across Salford between the 7-9 October 2026.
Beyond The Music returns with a three-day edition, bringing together artists and industry professionals for a programme of keynote talks, in-depth panels, and curated networking opportunities. The event will also feature a dedicated music showcase spotlighting over 100 emerging artists, with the full line-up set to be revealed soon.
Now in its third year, the hybrid conference and festival once again focuses on the future of the music business, discussing opportunities and challenges within the sector today.
For the first time, the 2026 programme will be held in MediaCity, Salford, using spaces including dock10 studios and a range of Salford’s iconic music venues to host international artists, executives, innovators and policymakers.
The 2026 edition will also feature a global ‘All Content AI Summit’, hosted by Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, which will focus on the protection of creators’ interests.
Speaking about the event, Burnham said: “I’m proud to host the All Content AI Summit, which will provide a space to consider the ethical questions raised by new technologies and how we can protect creators’ rights.
“Beyond The Music is a vital opportunity for the sector to come together and address the challenges and opportunities facing music and content creation,” he added.
Sarah Pearson, Co-founder of Beyond The Music, said: “The ethical and economic infrastructure of the music and content industries demands urgent attention and bold reform.
“We have some of the most pioneering and innovative minds in the world, so when we gather – united, in one place, at one time – we have the power to venture beyond the music and help redefine the future of the creative economy.”
New and emerging artists are invited to submit their music to a panel of industry experts, with selected acts earning the chance to perform at one of its anchor venues. Submission information is here.