Musically Unorthodox Conference returns for 2026: expanding reach, explaining routes and embracing reality

The Musically Unorthodox Conference will return for a second year on Friday 17 April, again highlighting and showcasing informal pathways into music careers, and connecting the dots to better support young creators who are not currently in education, employment or training. 

Supported by Youth Music, In Music In Media and Pathways Into Music, this is the annual conference that puts the spotlight on how the music and wider creative industries can better work with youth and community organisations, and local authorities and institutions, to connect with and support young adults who are not currently in education, employment or training.

After an acclaimed first edition in 2025, the second conference will include presentations, conversations, panels and roundtable discussions, as we consider: how the music industry and music educators can find and engage marginalised young people; how we can clearly sign-post career pathways to young people, step by step; and the reality of embarking on a music career, and the financial challenges it can pose. 

We know that the music and creative industries hold great potential for marginalised young people, offering unconventional avenues for expression, skills development, entrepreneurship and community-building. This conference brings together educators, the music industry and young creators to discuss how we can remove barriers, connect dots and provide support to help realise that potential. 

It is free to attend the Musically Unorthodox Conference – book your tickets here. 

The daytime conference will be followed by an evening showcase – artists interested in performing at the showcase can put themselves forward here. 

You can also access resources and sessions from the 2025 edition in the MU Conference Hub.