Estelle Trowill is a freelancer working across Wales’ grassroots music scene, championing emerging artists and creating meaningful opportunities for young people in music.

“USW gave me the confidence to find my place in the music industry and shaped so much of where I am today. The experiences I had opened doors I never expected, from my first industry job at Le Pub to freelancing with Beacons Cymru throughout university and gaining hands-on experience through Immersed. The people I met at USW made the experience even more meaningful. My lecturer’s encouragement throughout uni gave me so much confidence, and in my third year, Sian Gunning’s kindness and unwavering support meant more to me than she probably realises. I’m incredibly grateful, and this nomination feels like a full circle moment.”

Tilly Prosper is a Music Business graduate working in a new role within the copyright team at Sony Music Publishing, she manages specific copyright workflows and catalogues.

“It’s a real pleasure to be nominated for the OMGs! Having read back through the previous nominees/winners/runner ups, and getting to read the incredible work they’re all doing, it’s pretty special to now be a part of that list!”

Macy is a first-class Music Business graduate and founder of Wild Country, a UK country music magazine, with experience across music public relations and communications.

“I am thrilled to be nominated for the OMGs alongside so many hardworking peers across the music industry. I am incredibly thankful for the support of my tutors and Music Business cohort at UoG, without whom I would not have the confidence to pursue my passion and develop my career. Their encouragement and belief in my work have played a significant role in shaping my journey, especially with regard to the development of Wild Country. To be recognised alongside other emerging talent is a true honour, and I am grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way.”

Pianist Soraya Verjee is a nationwide performer, championing and spotlighting the music of women once forgotten.

“The University of Liverpool shaped me into the person I am today; I started the degree unsure in my goals and in myself, and left with strong ambition towards my desired career. Liverpool will always remain my second home. I am so honoured to be nominated alongside truly talented and incredible people for the OMG Graduate award. This nomination has led me to reflect on my time at the University and all the support I received from the staff there. I’m super excited for my new chapter in life as a pianist and performer, let’s look forward to the future!”

Georgia is a music producer, songwriter, session drummer and mix/master engineer, working across sync and commercial music with Universal Music, Netflix, BBC, ITV and more.

“The support I received from ICMP helped me find and connect with other people creating music and art. Being around people who were making things, sharing ideas and encouraging each other had a big impact on how I developed my own work. I’m really grateful for those connections and the confidence they gave me to keep creating and pursuing a career in music. It’s lovely to have that recognised through the OMGs nomination.”

Sofia Neves is a Service Operations Manager at ICE Services, managing complex music copyright data across multiple societies and international territories.

“It is truly an honour to be nominated for the OMG Awards. Reflecting on how much my understanding of the industry and career have grown since graduation makes me realise how far I’ve come, and how powerful a jumpstart my degree provided. Moving to a brand-new country without knowing the industry was daunting, but studying at BCU made all the difference. My mentors, Dr. Matt Grimes and Dr. Asya Draganova, went above and beyond. They blended practical experience with deep industry insight, connecting us with key professionals and giving me the guidance and confidence needed to build my path in music.”

UoG Alumni working as a music leader, educator, session musician, and trainee music therapist, dedicated to supporting young people in creative and musical spaces.

“My tutors have been essential to my career, giving me the confidence to network and build connections that have led to invaluable opportunities. I couldn’t have broken into these spaces without them. Being shortlisted for the OMG Awards is a surreal honour and a testament to the foundational support I received throughout my musical education. This milestone deeply motivates me to keep pushing forward in the industry. It also inspires my future goal: to pay it forward and provide support to the young people I work with today in musical spaces. “

Molly Fascione is a Leeds-based music industry professional working across A&R, artist development and live events, with a focus on supporting emerging talent.

“I’m super grateful for the support I received from Leeds Beckett and Whiskas, which gave me the confidence and knowledge to build a career in music. Since graduating, I’ve been fortunate to work across A&R, artist development and live events and it’s exciting to see how much of what I learned at university continues to shape what I do today. Being nominated for an OMG is a really special recognition of that journey and I’m genuinely honoured to be included.”

Holly Mullahy is a live production professional specialising in backstage logistics and festival stage management, as well as a label assistant and musician.

“Being nominated for the OMG Award was a wonderful surprise! I’m incredibly grateful to my tutors at Leeds Beckett for their support throughout my studies and the continued support they’ve offered since graduating. They gave me the confidence to grow as a performer and producer, but, most importantly, they introduced me to the brilliant world of live production, where I’m now fortunate to be building my career. Their continued support has been invaluable, both professionally and personally. It’s easy to lose track of your progress when everything else seems to move so fast, so this nomination is a humbling reminder to be proud of what I’ve achieved so far.”

I’m Thom and I’m a musician/producer. I completed my Level 3 diploma in Penwith College and have recently graduated in Falmouth University.

“Kate has been paramount in my evolution as a musician and a performer. Her teaching of harmony and improvisation is something I have taken into my practice, and furthermore, have utilised it to form my own sound. As well as pushing me, she allowed me the freedom to push myself which I continue doing in my music as much as I can. I’m very grateful for her support and the fact that she has nominated me for this award. “

Founder of Grassroots Music organisation Venture Concerts, Labeled as the fastest growing music movement in the uk, championing fair pay for Musicians.

“Manchester collage gave me the confidence to not only improve myself but make a difference to the world.”

London-based singer-songwriter that blends EDM, classical and contemporary influences to create emotive music exploring the many forms, complexities and feelings of love.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve received from my college, university and tutors. Having people who believe in my creativity and encourage me to develop my own sound has given me the confidence to grow both personally and professionally. Being nominated for the OMGs feels like a really exciting milestone and recognition of how far I’ve come. It’s motivated me to keep pushing myself creatively, develop my songwriting and continue building a career in music.”

Aaron Beattie is an Irish musician, songwriter and frontman of alternative rock band The Davids, developing his career through performance, recording and songwriting.

“The support I’ve received from Matt and the music department has had a huge impact on where I am now. I’ve been able to develop as a musician while actually putting that experience into practice through The Davids, recording, releasing music and performing. Matt has always encouraged me to take myself seriously and has given me the confidence to keep pushing forward. Being nominated for the OMGs is genuinely a proud moment, especially because it feels like recognition of the work I’ve put in throughout college. It’s also a reflection of the people who have supported me along the way.”

At 18, indie artist Charlie has released two EPs, surpassed 100,000 Spotify streams, performed alongside established acts, and now studies at LIPA.

“I was honestly in complete shock when I found out I’d been put forward for the OMG Award. I’m so proud to be representing the UAL course at Exeter College and all the students I shared it with. Jordan always taught us that ‘music should be a community, not a competition,’ and his support gave me the confidence to aim higher and believe I could get to LIPA. I’m incredibly grateful to be recognised in this way and really excited to come to the event.”

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I’m a 31 year band leader from Chichester West Sussex. Big music enthusiast and I love playing guitar

“I’m absolutely blown away with this nomination, I didn’t expect to get nominated for anything, I just love volunteering my time and spreading my love for music and spreading a positive attitude to everyone I meet. I’m filled with so much pride that I’m being recognised for something I’m passionate about and it’s led to so many wonderful opportunities. One being taking a group of kids who’ve never played music in a band before and getting them ready to perform In front of 800 people. Was a truly magical moment.”

Newcastle University Dr Jane Nolan Award recipient Jebby Joseph is a music educator and pianist at Aldro School, with experience teaching over 400 learners worldwide.

“Newcastle University gave me the opportunity to connect my teaching experience with research, enterprise and a wider understanding of the music sector. Adam Behr’s Live Music Events teaching especially challenged me to think more critically about audiences, access, cultural value and sustainable engagement. I am now carrying that perspective into my work in music education at Aldro School and into my continuing interest in cross-cultural piano pedagogy. Being nominated by Adam for UK Music’s Outstanding Contribution to Engagement through Music Award is especially meaningful because it recognises the kind of work I hope to keep developing throughout my career.”

Higher Rhythm is a not-for-profit, Music Industry Development, Media and Learning organisation

Based in Doncaster since 2001, Higher Rhythm provides music and media industry opportunities and services, mainly across Yorkshire, but beyond as well.

We offer a dynamic mix of creative options within a single, accessible hub. This includes recording studios, radio broadcasting, courses (including further & higher education), artist / industry development, creative projects, events and volunteering opportunities.

We work with partners, local to global, and deliver programmes, supporting more people to access and grow sustainable careers in our ever-evolving industries.

Music Industry and Media services, courses and support

If you dream of playing on stage in front of thousands of people, creating a seminal masterpiece in the studio, or dropping beats at legendary dance clubs around the globe, The Manchester College should be your number one choice music college.

At the No.1 Further Education College in Greater Manchester for achievement* we offer courses for singers, musicians, DJs and studio engineers that will take your skills to the next level. Our focus will be to get you ready for a successful career in this tough, but exciting industry.

Based in the heart of Manchester, with its legendary music scene, you will perform regularly for the public and have lots of opportunities to network.

*As per the latest Government National Achievement Rates Tables (NARTs)

Study Industry Leading Music Courses in Manchester

Dr Adam Behr is a Reader in Music, Politics and Society at Newcastle University. His work covers the relationship between music, the music industries, policymakers and their social contexts.

Ben is Academic Course Leader for Music Business at the University of Gloucestershire. He has worked in the music business for over 30 years as A&R manager, writer and presenter. He is the author of  acclaimed 2022 biography of Talk Talk’s Mark Hollis, A Perfect Silence.

With over 20 years’ experience as a producer in the Northern Irish music industry and one of the founding members of Factory 61, an innovative production company creating sustainable, paid opportunities for emerging artists and freelancers. Course Coordinator for the Level 3 Music Performance and Production programme at Southern Regional College, helping to develop emerging musicians, producers and creative practitioners through industry-focused education from Level 3 to Level 3 in the BA Creative Music and Audio Production Degree. Recent production projects include; Kitt Philippa, Sir James Galway, Ulster Orchestra, Lyric Theatre, Ciaran Lavery, Brand New Friend, Roe, Chubby Cat, Sinead Willox, Stephen Jones, Family & Tribe, Cup o’Joe, Edward F Butler, Aria String Quartet, NI Opera, Belfast Ensemble and Nathan O’Reagan, as well as musicians from the Ulster Orchestra and RTÉ concert Orchestra. These projects have been featured throughout national and international radio including; BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio 4 BBC Radio Ulster, RTE Radio 1, RTE 2fm and Today FM. Sync’d tracks have also been featured on BBC One, Channel 4 and E4. Kitt Philippa’s Debut album went on to win Best single 2018 and Best Album 2020 in the NI Music Awards. Factory 61 is a production company with a mission to incubate emerging freelance talent through providing industry-standard music and audio services, offering real responsibilities, real clients, and a real income.

FE music performance and production lecturer specialising in music engineering and production.