Talent & Skills
For artists. For industry. For your next step.
We support emerging talent and industry professionals at every stage of their journey - from first studio sessions to national recognition. Whether you're an artist, producer, promoter or aspiring exec, we offer practical training, tailored mentoring, and real industry access to help you grow.
Current Programmes
We run open calls and talent programmes throughout the year.
Opportunities open at different times - so if you don’t see something right now, don’t worry. Keep an eye on our What’s On page, follow us on socials, and sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know when applications go live.
A long-standing partnership built on belief. We’re proud to be a key partner of Youth Music. Like them, we believe every young person deserves the chance to transform their life through the power of music.
From studio time and mentoring to live showcases and national platforms, our work together creates real opportunities for emerging talent across the North.
First Notes
Designed for early-career artists aged 18–25, First Notes helps musicians take their first step towards professionalising their sound - from recording in the studio to launching a release and performing live.
Next-Up
A new programme for Rap, RnB and Afrobeats artists aged 18–25, focused on collaboration, creativity and visibility. Artists work together on a track and video, while building connections and confidence along the way.
Generator Young Ambassadors
A board of 18–25-year-olds helping shape the future of Generator. Our Ambassadors work with us to challenge, inform and improve our programmes - making sure we stay relevant and rooted in the communities we serve.
Community First: How We’re Powering the North’s Creative Culture
Community First: How We’re Powering the North’s Creative Culture
Music industry advisory group
Free advice. Tailored support. Trusted experts.
Our Music Industry Advisory Group (MIAG) connects artists and professionals in the North with leading experts from across the UK music industry.
Whether you're looking for guidance on funding, music law, A&R, touring or release campaigns, MIAG offers one-to-one advice sessions to help you move forward.
Michelle Escoffery
Songwriter / PRS Foundation Trustee (National)
Ryan Lofthouse
Manager, Closer Artists (National)
Joel Thompson
Music Promoter (Local)
Chelsea Wood
CEO, Wood Management / Got Music (Local)
Bernard Butler
Musician / Producer / Lecturer, BIMM London (National)
Hazel Wilde
Musician, Lanterns On The Lake (Local)
Paul Lennon
Music Lawyer, Statham Gill Davies Solicitors (National)
Sue Collier
Festival Director & Live Events Producer (National)Technical skills for life events
Want to build a career behind the scenes in live music?
It’s not just about artists - the live music industry needs skilled technicians, crew, and creatives to make it all happen.
We run accredited and non-accredited Technical Skills Courses throughout the year, in partnership with Newcastle College. These hands-on programmes give you real experience in sound, lighting, stage management and safety - preparing you for work in venues and festivals across the region.
- Emily Bowdon, Generator Technical Skills GraduateI always knew I wanted to work in live music, but I didn’t know where to start. The Technical Skills course gave me the experience, confidence, and connections to take that first real step into the industry.
Are you an artist or music professional from Tees Valley?
Our Sonic Futures programme offers tailored support, development opportunities and funding for people living or working in the Tees Valley.
From hands-on skills programmes to artist funding and local showcases, we’re building a stronger, more sustainable music scene in the region.
Be the First to Know
New opportunities drop throughout the year - from open calls and internships to skills programmes and artist support.
Sign up to our newsletter and follow us on socials to hear about them first.
