Jazz North x The Glasshouse: Conversations & Collisions
Jamming. Networking. A free day of inspiration for developing artists.
Jazz North and The Glasshouse invite you to a relaxed and inspiring Artist Development Day, featuring sessions on creative practice, radio, touring, and sustainable music careers — with opportunities to network, collaborate, and create music together.
An incredible, free to attend day of conversation and inspiration. Book a free ticket to secure your place and stay in touch with the latest updates about the day.
Need to know
Venue: NRFH
Price: This free event is open to artists of all genres and experience levels. Please book in advance to secure a place
Times: 3pm–8pm (Jam session from 7pm)
Age: 18+
Featured Sessions & Speakers
Sax, Stories & Sound: Jasmine Myra in Conversation
Join rising star saxophonist and composer Jasmine Myra in conversation with freelance writer and radio producer Thomas Rees to explore her music, creative process, and career journey.
Radio Waves: Breaking Through the Noise
Thomas Rees and Dan Gray lead a session on how to get your music noticed on radio, sharing practical tips, insights, and industry perspectives. Hosted by Rianne Thompson.
From the North to the EU: Expanding Horizons
Panel Overview:
This session will explore touring strategies, career sustainability, and opportunities for artists to grow regionally, nationally, and internationally.
Speakers:
- Steve Mead – Artistic Director/CEO and co-founder of Manchester Jazz Festival, Head of Talent Development at Jazz North, and Vice-President of the Europe Jazz Network.
- Angie Rance – Agent at Earth Agency with over 15 years’ experience in artist management and live music, and a founding committee member of Brian Eno’s charity EarthPercent, advocating for sustainability in the music industry.
Jam Session & Networking
Bring your instruments! A basic backline (keyboard, drums, amps) will be provided for a jam session starting at 7pm. Network with fellow artists and industry professionals in a relaxed, friendly environment.
Refreshments and a light meal will be provided (first-come, first-served, so book your ticket early).
About the hosts
Jazz North – The Strategic Development Agency for jazz in the North of England, supporting artist development, sector growth, and learning & participation since 2012.
The Glasshouse – International Centre for Music in Gateshead, inspiring millions through live music, education, and community programmes since 2004.
Meet the speakers
Jasmine Myra
Jasmine Myra is a saxophonist, composer and band leader, based in London. Originally part of the bustling, creative, cross-genre music scene in Leeds (she attended Leeds Conservatoire) Jasmine has surrounded herself with some of the best young talent from the city. Her original instrumental music has a euphoric and uplifting sound, influenced by artists as diverse as Kenny Wheeler, Bonobo, Ólafur Arnalds and Moses Sumney.
Thomas Rees
Freelance writer and radio producer (Folded Wing, BBC Radio 3’s ‘Round Midnight’), and musician. He writes for From Our Own Correspondent, Rough Guides, The Wire, DownBeat, Jazzwise and more, and has interviewed artists including Quincy Jones, Sheila Jordan, Esperanza Spalding, Ron Carter, Roy Hargrove, and Grimes. In 2019 he travelled across Haiti, meeting carnival bands and vodou drummers, and is working on a book about the music scene.
Steve Mead
Artistic Director/CEO and co-founder of Manchester Jazz Festival (since 1996), where he has led initiatives such as mjf originals, hothouse and Soundcheck. Head of Talent Development at Jazz North and Vice-President of the Europe Jazz Network. Co-founder of the Jazz Promotion Network, with extensive experience advising Arts Council England, PRS Foundation, and other music organisations.
Angie Rance
Agent at Earth Agency, an independent music agency working with acts across folk, jazz, indie, experimental, instrumental, post-classical, electronica, and rock. Over 15 years’ experience in artist management and live agency work, and a founding committee member of Brian Eno’s charity EarthPercent, advocating for sustainability in the music industry.
Dan Gray
Dan Gray is a dynamic music manager representing renowned artists like Norman Jay MBE, DJ Yoda, Eddie Chacon and Knats. With over 15 years of experience, Dan is known for his keen eye for talent and commitment to creative excellence. He is also the co-founder of Soho Radio, one of the UK’s most respected online radio stations.
Rianne Thompson
Rianne Thompson is a Producer for the Artist Development programme at The Glasshouse. She works on live events including BBC Introducing from The Glasshouse, the BBC Proms, and most recently MOBO Fringe 2025. Rianne also develops new projects with artists from across the UK and recently worked on a creative music and dance project with Corinne Bailey Rae. Before joining The Glasshouse, she presented and produced one of the regional BBC Introducing shows, helping to support and champion emerging artists.