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HULL MUSIC CITIES CONVENTION 2026

June 9 – 11, 2026 · Kingston upon Hull, UK

Music Cities Convention Homecoming - Back to Where It All Began! 

Music Cities Convention returns to the UK to celebrate Hull’s journey

from a vibrant grassroots community to a globally recognised music city.

MUSIC AS A DRIVER OF CHANGE

Over the past decade, Hull has transformed its bubbling grassroots scene into a driving force for cultural advocacy and civic pride.

From its year as UK City of Culture in 2017 to its five-year plan to achieve UNESCO City of Music status by 2030, Hull has consistently placed music at the centre of cultural, social, and economic transformation.

The city’s legacy is rich — producing world-renowned artists like The Housemartins, ambient icon Throbbing Gristle, Everything but the Girl, and today’s breakthrough rapper Chiedu Oraka. But Hull isn’t only about heritage. It’s about building a future where music drives identity, tourism, and opportunity for the next generation.

WHAT TO EXPECT

250+ DELEGATES FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD

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30X SPEAKERS

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2 FULL DAYS OF TALKS

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LOCAL MUSIC SHOWCASES

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WHY HULL?

After a decade across four continents and ten countries, Music Cities Convention returns to the UK,

spotlighting one of the nation’s most exciting music cities.

Hull is a city of bold ideas and community-driven change, which has been able to grow

as a healthy music ecosystem ready to attract the attention of the rest of the globe.

THE VENUES OF THE
MUSIC CITIES CONVENTION

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HULL MINSTER

Opening reception in one of England’s most iconic medieval churches, reimagined as a cultural

gathering space.

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DOUBLETREE BY HILTON HILL

Main stage for global talks,

panels, and presentations.

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LOCAL MUSIC VENUES

After the sessions, explore legendary grassroots venues like The Polar Bear Music Club, The Welly Club, and The Adelphi Club — the lifeblood of Hull’s music scene.

DISCOVER HULL

Beyond the music, Hull offers a cultural adventure — from the cobbled Old Town and maritime museums to modern icons like The Deep aquarium and the Humber Bridge. Add in local flavours like chip spice and one of Europe’s largest annual fairs, and Hull sets the stage for an unforgettable convention.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE CONVENTION

For three days, delegates from over 25 countries will gather in Hull to learn, connect, and co-create the future of music cities. This is more than an event — it’s the next chapter in Hull’s cultural story.

SPONSORSHIPS AND PARTNERS

Curious about how our event can elevate your organisation

and connect you with potential clients and partners?

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JOIN THE WAITING LIST: GET EXCLUSIVE INFO AND DISCOUNTS FOR THE CONVENTION

Make sure to be part of the Hull Music Cities Convention in June 2026.

Sign up for the waiting list now to:

  • Secure early access to discounted tickets

  • Receive all event updates directly

  • Be part of the community shaping the future of music in Hull

HOST PARTNERS

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SUPPORTING PARTNERS

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Do you have any other questions regarding the Hull Music Cities Convention, or want to sponsor? Contact Pablo at pablo@sounddiplomacy.com to learn everything related to the event's programme and activities.

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