About the programme

Our artist development programme, NEXT LEVEL, is all about collaboration between artists and industry friends alike and has been designed to nurture Bristol’s next wave of artists in the city, and is now calling for applications from singers, rappers, vocalists and MCs aged 18-30 who are making original music.

During the project, participants will:

• engage with a music writing and producing week
• learn from industry mentors such as Sam Interface, N.Y.T.A, Javeon, NGAIO, Dread MC, and Grove
• perform in a showcase at Bristol Beacon
• benefit from radio show features
• take part in industry workshops hosted by creative professionals
• be offered performance opportunities 
• have the unique chance to connect and grow in the Next Level community.

These opportunities will cover an 18-month period, which will prepare the cohort for festival performances in summer season 2025 and 2026.

How we’ve developed the programme

This amazing project has been running for 3 years. We’ve listened to feedback from the artists and mentors and have been reflecting on how we approach festival performance opportunities.

For this year’s programme, being offered a place does not guarantee you slots at all the previous festivals we have worked with through the project. But we will continue to work alongside you to develop your performance skills, identify appropriate and beneficial performance opportunities and help you effectively prepare.

Artists from the previous years will be invited back to industry tailored workshops and collaborative opportunities, supported by Big Team.

Applications for 2025 are now open with a deadline of Thursday 13 Feb.