SO.CO Team
Sunderland Joins Music Cities Network
The city of Sunderland has joined the likes of Sydney, Berlin and Manchester as part of the international Music Cities Network, giving it access collaborative opportunities, resources and advocacy with fellow Music Cities across the globe.
Marty Longstaff (The Lake Poets) performed at the event
The recognition was announced at the Growth Lab event at The Fire Station, following the presentation of the Sunderland Music City Strategy, which aims to “make Sunderland a better place because of music”. The strategy will focus on developing local talent and enhancing musical education, as well as promoting existing venues and establishing new ones.
Lena Ingwersen (Music Cities Network) spoke with Frankie Francis
Managing director of the Music Cities Network, Lena Ingwersen said: "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.”
Paul Callaghan, of Sunderland Music, Arts and Culture Trust, spoke of the importance of music in the city
The event was also used to launch the Sunderland Year Of Music, which kicks off in June, and will celebrate Sunderland’s rich musical heritage as well as establishing new events to highlight under-represented genres.
The Sunderland Music City delivery team, joined by Lena Ingwersen
Sunderland City Council leader Michael Mordey said Music City built on the "already fantastic and exciting redevelopment of Sunderland as a whole".
Words and photos: Thomas Jackson