From grassroots beginnings in Middlesbrough to touring Europe, singer-songwriter Finn Forster’s journey is powered by hard work, ambition and a supportive community.

This July, he’s back at The Glasshouse, this time in Sage One as support for JADE at BBC Proms.

Finn’s relationship with The Glasshouse started through its Artist Development programmes, where he first took part in Summer Studios. The residency gave artists space to fine-tune their live sound, reflect on performance style and gain vital industry insight.

“The Glasshouse isn’t just a venue, it’s a community. At Summer Studios, I listened to industry speakers and learned about marketing, mailing lists and the importance of collecting data. It was all essential to building my career.”

There are musical pathways here for all stages, whether you’re picking up an instrument for fun or taking your first steps towards a career in music. For Finn, those steps led to a pivotal moment – headlining From The Glasshouse (now BBC Introducing from The Glasshouse), where he sold out Sage Two.

“At that point in my career, I was just getting started. Being given access to a high-profile venue was a rare and valuable opportunity. It gave me a real sense of what it’s like to be supported in the industry.”

For many emerging artists, organising gigs can be overwhelming. The pressure of promotion, logistics and ticket sales can overshadow the joy of performing. But, From The Glasshouse gave Finn the platform – and the headspace – to focus on the music.

“I didn’t feel any of the usual behind-the-scenes pressure. I could focus on performing and connecting with the audience. Afterwards, doors opened, and I went on to headline shows in Newcastle and London.”

Support from other North East organisations including Generator and the Tees Valley Combined Authority has also played a key role in Finn’s journey. Together with The Glasshouse, they’re working hard to create a thriving home for artists in the North East – one that’s gaining national recognition through initiatives like Music City.

“You can’t do it all on your own. When I started, it was hard to find clear information on how to progress. That’s where organisations like Generator, Tees Valley Combined Authority and The Glasshouse come in. They create routes by providing guidance, development programmes and opportunities to perform.”

Now signed to Interval Records and recently named Tees Valley Artist of the Year 2025, Finn’s momentum is only growing. Earlier this year, he was selected by Tees Valley Combined Authority and Generator to perform at SXSW in Texas – one of the world’s biggest music festivals – as part of the region’s Sonic Futures programme.

The Tees Valley Artist of the Year award brings a game-changing £28,000 investment and a year of tailored support to take his career to the next level. Both initiatives are funded by the Combined Authority and the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Finn’s already shared stages with major artists, including supporting the Stereophonics on their European tour. And now, before his own UK headline tour this November, he’s joining the BBC Proms at The Glasshouse to open for fellow North East star JADE.

“Anyone who can break through and get to the level JADE’s at is inspiring to me and to anyone wanting to follow in similar footsteps. With everything happening in the North East – BBC Proms, Music City, the MOBOs, the Mercury Prize – we’re showing that this is the place to be culturally.”

All the backing, belief and encouragement brought Finn to this moment, and he’s set on showing you don’t have to leave the region to make it in music.

“I want younger generations to follow a similar route and know that your background doesn’t matter and shouldn’t limit you. If you believe you can do it, you can.”