The globe-trotting world music convention, WOMEX, is all set to commemorate its 30th installment in Manchester, United Kingdom, in the upcoming year. Slated for October 23 through 27, 2024, this marks WOMEX’s inaugural foray into Manchester and the third occurrence in the UK. Its previous British editions were hosted in Cardiff, Wales, back in 2013 and Gateshead/Newcastle in 2005.
With Manchester Music City taking the lead, the city council spearheaded Manchester’s bid, backed by partners Brighter Sound and English Folk Expo, and received additional support from Arts Council England, British Council, Horizons, and Marketing Manchester.
The WOMEX conference will unfold in the heart of the city, with Manchester Central serving as the hub for the daytime conference and trade fair. Furthermore, venues such as Aviva Studios, Albert Hall, Bridgewater Hall, and O2 Ritz will come alive with live music showcases. In addition to this, a lineup of international films will grace the screens at HOME.
Piranha Arts, the owners, and producers of WOMEX, headquartered in Berlin, will work hand in hand with Marketing Manchester and the rest of the Manchester event team over the next year to promote the event to potential delegates and participants worldwide.
Tom Besford, from event delivery partner English Folk Expo, said: “Manchester will be an amazing place to host WOMEX. I’m incredibly excited to welcome the international music industry to our city, and it’s even more brilliant for local audiences to see some of the most spectacular worldwide bands. This really is the best gathering of global music anywhere. I hope music lovers from across the region and beyond embrace this once-in-a-generation event to discover life-changing music.”
Alexander Walter, director of WOMEX, stated: “It is wonderful to be in Manchester, marking the 30th anniversary of WOMEX amidst this city’s vibrant cultural boom and diversity. Gathering the global music community in Manchester, alongside friends, collaborators and creative minds from the UK and Ireland and beyond, presents a remarkable opportunity for all. We are all very excited.”
(Headline image: Manchester aerial view by Mylo Kaye)
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central