Sunderland Music City has announced that its bid to join the Music Cities Network has been successful, making it only the second city in the UK to join.
The Music Cities Network, established in 2016, connects cities worldwide to promote the music industry’s growth, economic development, and cultural exchange. Internationally, Sunderland now sits alongside legendary music spots like Sydney and Berlin, as well as being only the second UK city to join the network along with Manchester.
Sunderland’s place among the roster of international Music Cities is an acknowledgement of Wearside’s amazing musical heritage and marks the ongoing commitment to nurturing the city’s dynamic music scene and fostering a robust creative economy in the area.
Sunderland’s inclusion in the global network gives the city access to collaborative opportunities, resources and advocacy that will help the city build on its music ecosystem and support cultural, social and economic development.
Approval of the city’s membership by the Music Cities Network (MCN) board is also a resounding rubber stamp for the forthcoming Sunderland Music Strategy.
Developed over several months by the team at Sunderland Music City, which was established in June 2024 to establish Sunderland as a globally recognised music hub, and based on feedback from local music professionals and fans, the five-year plan for music in Sunderland will be delivered in collaboration not only with the Sunderland music ecosystem but also with new international peers and partners in the MCN.
Andrew Dipper, marketing director at Sunderland Music City said: “Being part of the Music Cities Network helps put a flag in the ground to show that this is the place to be for music lovers, musicians, and anyone wanting to make a career for themselves in music.
“Sunderland has always been a Music City, and now we’re in the best possible position to share that fact with the world.”
(Image: Sunderland Music City)
Lena Ingwersen, managing director of the Music Cities Network, added: “Sunderland is an amazing addition to the Music Cities Network – it has a proud and storied heritage of music, and an exciting future ahead.
“For us, the mindset of people is paramount, and the Sunderland Music City team’s energy, insight, and enthusiasm are outstanding.
“We look forward to collaborating and learning from their ecosystem as we welcome Sunderland as our next city member.”
Paul Callaghan, chair of the Sunderland Music, Arts and Culture Trust said: “Being accepted into the Music Cities Network is a remarkable achievement for our city, reinforcing our identity as a vibrant cultural community where music thrives. We are delighted to be recognised internationally as a Music City. It’s a title that Sunderland will wear with great pride.
“Working with partners in some of the world’s most exciting music cities presents incredible opportunities for growth and development. We’re also excited to share our own insights and experiences with this wonderful community.”
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View news Source: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/sunderland-music-city-global-music-30833148
