We're here to prove that music isn’t just for some – it’s for everyone.

We turn data into action – helping young people not just make music but make a living from it. 

Our research drives change, holding us accountable as a bold, equitable changemaker. 

96%

NextGen creatives agree that funding improved their self-confidence and belief

As well as improving the quality of their work and enabling them to make things happen on their own terms

120,000+

children and young people making, learning and earning in music

We invest in grassroots music making across the nation, with 87% of our funding invested outside of London over the last year

£9.7 million

invested in young people’s creativity

Over the last year, we’ve invested in 292 new grants including over £250k in 102 NextGen creatives

Our Impact
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Contact us

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Youth Music Awards

The Youth Music Awards is a vibrant celebration of young talent, representing the future of music with every beat and lyric.
 

Latest News

Little Simz wears a black jacket, white shirt, and sunglasses sings into a microphone on stage. The mood is energetic and vibrant, suggesting a lively performance.
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What It Means to Be Young, Black and a Woman in the Music Industry

This Black History Month, NextGen writer Oladoyin Alana explores the challenges faced by young Black women in the UK music industry - from underrepresentation and bias to the pressure of performing palatable femininity. Through personal stories and community-led initiatives, she calls for a future where Black women’s voices are heard, respected, and celebrated.

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jayahadadream performing in a denim top and jeans. She's on stage at the YMAs 2025, performing with sunglasses on in front of a large screen with her name on it, singing into the mic
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Grassroots Music In The Spotlight: YMAs 2025 Recap

Unforgettable performances. Unmatched energy. The Youth Music Awards 2025 was our biggest night yet. Catch up on all the highlights! 

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Girl with headphones at mixing desk
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Music, the Mentor: How UK Rap, Afroswing and Afrobeats Taught What School Skipped

This Black History Month, NextGen writer, Ivié Imafidon-Marcus, takes us on a journey through the beats, bars and dances that shaped her generation. 

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Matt Griffiths at the Youth Music Awards, wearing a black suit with grey lapels, a tiger print shirt, and red-rimmed glasses
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Youth Music Begins Search For Next CEO As Matt Griffiths Announces Departure

Youth Music has begun the search for its next CEO, following Matt Griffiths’ decision to step down after 13 years of transformative leadership.

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image of Youth Music branded light box. The light box is white with 'Youth Music' in black text. It is on a stage next to the feet of a microphone and in front of an amp
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Resources and support during current racism and protests in the UK

In response to the far-right protests in the UK, please find resources, support, and guidance for projects, educators, and communities affected. 

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English Teacher band
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English Teacher win Youth Music’s 2025 Grassroots Hero Award.

English Teacher have been named Grassroots Hero at the 2025 Youth Music Awards, celebrating their support for grassroots music. Nominees across 11 other award categories are also announced.

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A diverse group of people seated in a circle engages in discussion in a bright room with high ceilings and large windows. The atmosphere is relaxed and focused.
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Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: Industry Connect Coalition Comes to Nottingham

Our Industry Connect Coalition event in Nottingham brought artists, creatives, and industry leaders together to reimagine a safer, fairer, more inclusive music industry for the next generation.

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Trailblazer Round 9 - Grant Awards

Discover the 33 organisations funded through Trailblazer Fund Round 9.

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bruna garcia performs into a mic
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'We Are The Roots' NextGen Community Event With Pirate

We joined forces with Pirate for ‘We Are The Roots' a NextGen Community event - a powerful open mic and networking evening celebrating grassroots music, young creatives, and the future of the music industries.

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Image of Kasim, black and white, hand to his head, looking at the camera
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Youth Music Report: Global Majority Young People Underrepresented in Music Industry

A new Youth Music report reveals Global Majority young people are underrepresented in music industry leadership despite strong cultural ties and ambition for careers in music.

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