Manchester's Beyond The Music festival and conference will return for its third edition from October 7-9, 2026, at a new venue in Salford's MediaCity. The event announced on March 30 features keynotes, showcases, and a global All Content AI Summit hosted by Mayor Andy Burnham. Organizers aim to address music industry challenges and foster collaboration across creative sectors.
The festival, which previously took place in Manchester, shifts to MediaCityUK, home to BBC and ITV operations. It will convene artists, executives, innovators, and policymakers to discuss pressing issues in music, media, technology, and creative industries. A statement highlighted the event's goal to connect ideas, unlock collaboration, and accelerate growth while expanding Manchester's musical prominence into Salford during its centenary year celebrations. Grassroots music showcases will run throughout Salford over the three days, with tickets available now. You can buy tickets for the event here. (Note: this seems like a link, but in article, ignore or attribute. Wait, rephrase. Skip that. Actually, sources say 'You can buy tickets for the event here.' but don't link. Just report. Remove. Ok. Adjusted. Body: The festival... tickets now. No, sources: 'You can buy tickets for the event here.' But as journalist, 'Tickets are on sale.' but stick to facts. No assumption. So omit sales if not verbatim, but it says 'You can buy tickets for the event here.' so 'Tickets are available for purchase.' ok. But to be precise. Anyway. A centerpiece is the first global All Content AI Summit, hosted by Andy Burnham, a founding member. Burnham plans to gather leaders from content industries to establish ethical AI guidelines focusing on rights, licensing, and enforcement. 'Greater Manchester has always been at the forefront of cultural innovation,' Burnham said. 'Beyond The Music is helping to cement our city region’s place at the centre of the creative economy.' Sarah Pearson, co-founder, emphasized protecting creativity amid economic challenges. 'We have the power to venture beyond the music and help redefine the future of the creative economy,' she stated. Alice Webb, CEO of MediaCity and dock10, and Sally Cook of Salford Culture and Place Partnership welcomed the event, noting its role in showcasing Salford's creative scene. Past editions featured grassroots showcases, panels on industry futures, and speakers like Aitch. Recent events included discussions with Burnham and MP Lisa Nandy on grassroots venues. The announcement follows Manchester hosting the BRIT Awards, MOBO Awards, and BBC Radio 6 Music festival.
