This past week, Hull proudly hosted the international Music Cities Convention - a major global gathering exploring how music can shape places, strengthen communities and drive cultural and economic growth. The event last came to Hull a decade ago, and its return this year marked a significant moment for the city’s music ecosystem.

 

The Music Cities Convention brings together people from across the world who work in music, culture, education, policy and placemaking. Its goal is simple but powerful: to explore how music can help cities thrive.

 

The week began with the Hull Music Forum, led by Hull City Council Arts Development and the Hull Music Board. This session set the tone for the days ahead, highlighting the city’s ongoing commitment to supporting musicians, venues and the wider creative sector.

 

The main convention took place over two packed days at the DoubleTree, where delegates attended panel discussions, fireside chats and workshops. Topics ranged from music education and venue sustainability to nighttime economy strategies and international case studies. The conversations were lively, thoughtful and full of practical insight.

 

Midweek, the focus shifted from discussion to celebration with Hull of a Night, a pop‑up festival across some of the city’s most beloved venues. Dive, Adelphi Club and Polar Bear Music Club all opened their doors for an evening that showcased Hull’s grassroots talent and the vibrancy of its live music scene.

 

The final day of the convention took place at Connexin Live, followed by a spectacular closing event at Hull Minster for the Hull Music Awards. It was a fitting end to a week that celebrated not only global ideas but also the local artists, organisers and venues who make Hull’s music culture what it is.

 

Hosting the Music Cities Convention wasn’t just about a busy events calendar - it was about putting Hull on the map as a city that values and invests in its music culture. Most importantly, it highlighted something many people here already know: Hull really is a music city - and its story is still being written.