Focus Wales looks to a fairer future for music for 2026 conference

Exploring how the music sector can move from aspiration to meaningful practice in matters of equity and inclusion, the 2026 programme poses a vital question: how can fairness become a genuine guiding principle rather than a buzzword or a gesture of good intent? Building on the 2025 theme, A Healthier Future for Music, the 2026 conference will examine how artists, organisations, and communities can work together to create a more accessible, culturally diverse, and socially just musical ecosystem—one equipped to meet the challenges and possibilities of the next decade.

“What was really evident at the conference this year was how much the conversation has shifted," Sarah Jones, Director of FOCUS Wales, explains. "It’s no longer just about talking representation, it’s about getting practical: how do we actually support under-represented voices, and what’s genuinely working? There’s a real appetite to reflect, learn from each other, and move things forward in ways that make a tangible difference.”

The first confirmed showcasing partners and the opening wave of speakers have also be announced for the May event. New partners include Showcase Scotland, which develops live export opportunities for Scottish artists working in folk, traditional, Scots, Gaelic, world and acoustic music by building global industry connections and advocating for Scottish talent, and Off Axis, a not-for-profit touring network using a gig-swapping model to support independent artists across the UK and Ireland. They join collaborators including Generator, the North East England music development agency supporting artists and creative entrepreneurs through training and mentorship; Greater Manchester MusicCommission, which champions the region’s music sector; and Music Nova Scotia.

Among the industry heavyweights lined up to speak are Sub Pop Head of A&R Nick Duncan, Earth Agency; Harvey Dent, Beggars Group Head of Promotions Robert Cannell, Zandari Festa's Dalse Yoon-Young Kong, and Musicmex's Valeria Ramos. Jump over to the FOCUS Wales website for a full list of names.

Further details on the conference programme, along with a wider line-up of partners and speakers, will be announced in the coming weeks.