Off The Record Edinburgh 2026

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Off The Record Edinburgh 2026 〰️

Aged 16-25 and looking to get an insight into navigating the music industry? 

Join us in Edinburgh February 21st for a packed daytime programme of sessions covering rights and royalties, how to get started in the music industry and develop your network, organising your own gigs and digitally releasing your music. 

Our industry guests will explore the steps for getting your music in front of the right people, building your network, collaborating with artists and your peers and top tips for working in the music industry. 

You'll gain valuable insights into digital releasing structures, how promoters and venues work with artists, securing funding for your work and how to pitch your music for sync placements. 

You’ll also have the opportunity to submit your music for feedback from a panel of industry professionals from across Scotland. 

In between sessions you'll have the chance to network with fellow creatives as well as industry professionals.

Speakers and programme announced early 2026.

Book Tickets Now
 

Speakers & Programme

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Speakers & Programme 〰️

Aja Garrod-Prance
General Manager
SMIA

Lok Pui Lo
Events and Partnerships Coordinator / Director
Be United and ESEA Creatives

SJ Andersen
Artist Relations Manager
EmuBands

Cameron Hughes
Tour & Production Manager
Clockwork Live

Lucy Babe Hunte
DJ / Producer / Cultural Organiser
gullygully / Serve!

Jack Mcmanus
Promoter / Artist Manager
Scottish Music Collective

Meg Denholm
Local Promoter Assistant
DF Concerts & Events

Rosie Watson
Artist Manager
Kingdom MGMT


Funding + Support

Whether you make music or work with musicians, it is crucial to know the support that's available to you. Scottish Funding and Support Organisations are on hand to give a round up of how they operate, the funds and resources they have available and what support systems they have for emerging musicians and professionals across Scotland.

Speakers: Aja Garrod-Prance (SMIA) + more to be announced

Digitally Releasing with EmuBands

Digital distribution made easy, want to get your releases on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer and more? Get an overview of how digital release platforms operate, hints and tips for your digital releases and an overview of Shazam, Spotify for Artists and chart registrations.

Speaker: SJ Andersen (EmuBands)

Understanding the role of Collection Societies

Starting and sustaining a career in music can mean a lot of hard work, so understanding your revenue streams is vital for any new artist. Whether it’s money from radio play, television, or your music being played in public, we’ll be discussing how revenue flows back through to the performer and rights holder.

Speaker: Jamie Gilmour (Rightsbridge)

What is Music Publishing? 

This session breaks down the fundamentals of music publishing - what it is, how it works, and why it matters for songwriters and artists. We’ll cover copyrights, royalties, publishing deals, and the key players involved, with practical insights to help you better understand and protect the value of your music.

Speaker: Rosie Watson (Kingdom MGMT / 23rd Precinct)

Routes into the Music Industry 

Panelists provide insight into their roles in the industry and how you can develop your skills and network. Giving an overview of their experiences working in music, how they progressed to where they are now and advice on support networks and opportunities available to anyone starting out their career in music.

Speakers: Cameron Hughes (Clockwork Live), Jack Mcmanus (SMC), Lok Pui Lo (Be United / ESEA Creatives)
Moderator: Aja Garrod-Prance (SMIA)

Building Your Audience 

Growing an audience takes more than great music—it takes strategy. This panel explores key sectors of the music industry that help artists reach new fans and deepen existing connections, including press, radio, and live performance. Industry experts will share how these tools work together, how artists can access them at different stages of their careers, and practical ways to turn exposure into a lasting audience.

Speakers: Meg Denholm (DF Concerts & Events) plus more to be announced

LIVE: DIY Approaches + Community Building 

This session brings together speakers who have launched their own club nights, gigs, and festivals and grown dedicated communities around them. Panelists will discuss how they developed strategies to build and sustain audiences, from grassroots promotion to long-term community building, and share practical lessons on turning events into thriving cultural platforms.

Speakers: Lucy Babe Hunte (gullygully / Serve!) plus more to be announced

Listening Feedback Session   

Artists are invited to submit tracks for feedback from media and music professionals. Submit your music here, please note submissions will only be accepted from registered attendees.

Speakers: Meg Denholm (DF Concerts & Events) plus more to be announced

2026 Tickets

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2026 Tickets 〰️

Tickets

Bursary

Travel Bursary


Parent / Carer Photo Consent Form

We are filming and photographing Off The Record so you can watch the seminars online after the event. The photos will be used to promote future events. If you are under 18 we require a parent/carer to complete the photo permission form below. Preferably consent forms will be sent to kitt@otrscot.com in advance of the event, but if this is not possible, please bring the signed form on the day.

Access the form